Air quality warning lifted in the GTA, but could come back: Environment Canada

The air quality warning for the Greater Toronto Area has been lifted after being in place over the long weekend, Environment Canada says.

While there will still be particles in the air on Tuesday and Wednesday, levels are not high enough to issue a warning, said Alexandra Cournoyer, maritime operations supervisor with Environment Canada.

But that relief may not last for long with lower air quality potentially returning later in the week, she said. 

"This is due to all the smoke that is drifting around," said Cournoyer. "So there could be periods of time that it gets better, but that there could also be periods of time later this week that it it's coming back."

Environment Canada had issued a special air quality statement warning for several days after wildfire smoke from the prairies blew in over southern Ontario.

Cournoyer says this year's wildfire season has made the air quality worse in the GTA compared to 2024, but 2023 was still more severe on the whole.

"Last year was a pretty low season with the wildfire season. But ... 2023 got pretty intense with the wildfire activities," she said.

Toronto's air quality index was at five, or "moderate risk," on Tuesday morning, according to Environment Canada.

Some rain is expected at the end of the week, which will help clear air quality, says Lucas Alexopoulos, operational meteorologist with Environment Canada.

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Stay indoors during an air quality advisory: Environment Canada

The best way for people to protect themselves from poor air quality is to be informed and aware of any special weather advisories, said Cournoyer.

When a warning is issued, people with vulnerabilities, such as respiratory conditions, are advised to reduce their time outdoors and follow guidelines set by local authorities, says Alexopoulos.

Symptoms can include eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, and a mild cough. While it's not as common, Environment Canada says wheezing, chest pains or a severe cough are also potential symptoms.

The national weather agency is advising people to keep their windows and doors closed and check in on others who live nearby who are more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution.

The agency also suggests using a good quality air filter inside ventilation systems or a portable air cleaner to protect indoor air from smoke.