Wildfire smoke dissipates as storms hit region
Air quality improves to moderate as severe thunderstorms sweep through capital
The smoky air hanging over the Ottawa area gradually cleared on Monday as severe thunderstorms arrived late in the afternoon.
The air quality in Ottawa was very high-risk on Sunday afternoon and eveing, the highest level on the Air Quality Health Index.
It dopped to high-risk overnight, then improved to moderate risk by Monday afternoon and is expected to become low-risk Monday evening. It's a similar story in Gatineau, Que., and Cornwall, Ont. Air quality in other parts of eastern Ontario including the Belleville and Kingston areas is normal.
People should take precautions when pollution levels reach high and very high risk, according to Environment Canada. That means reducing or avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, keeping windows shut and running air purifiers. Some residents may choose to wear an N95-type face mask while outdoors to filter smoke particles.
The City of Ottawa planned to reopen outdoor pools, resume outdoor recreation programs and allow for swimming at beaches at 4 p.m., but thunderstorms could affect that plan.
The Renfrew County District School Board said it is keeping students inside Monday because of the air quality.
Severe thunderstorm
Environment Canada has smog warnings in place for Gatineau and communities to its north and east. Special air quality statements cover the rest of the region, except for the Kingston and Belleville areas.
A severe thunderstorm warning was also issued for all of eastern Ontario and western Quebec, minus the Belleville area. Wind, hail and downpours arrived before 4 p.m., along with lightning,
Forest fires in and around the capital region, particularly further north in Quebec, have been affecting air quality and causing community evacuations for most of June.
- Check the CBC News Climate Dashboard for live updates on weather, including smoke and fires.
There are fire bans across western Quebec and in parts of eastern Ontario where that province issues them. Ottawa also has a burn ban in effect.
The local fire risk is generally low where it's measured by the two provinces, but it remains extreme west of Val d'Or, Que., where many fires are concentrated.
