Elevated air pollution leads to air quality advisory for Windsor, Chatham, Sarnia region

Windsor-Essex, Chatham-Kent and Sarnia-Lambton can all expect elevated air pollution levels again Tuesday.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has once again issued a special weather statement for the region.

This time, the weather office says weather conditions are expected to cause increasing levels of ozone. 

It expects Air Quality Health Index values to be in the moderate range Tuesday with short-term high-risk values caused by ozone combining with residual smoke.

"When air pollution levels are high, everyone should limit time outdoors," the weather office said.

"Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events."

Common symptoms from exposure to increased air pollution include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough.

More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. 

Anyone who thinks they are having a medical emergency should seek immediate medical assistance, weather officials said.

People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution include people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors.

When indoors, people should keep windows and doors closed as much as possible, the weather office said. 

They can improve their indoor air quality by using a clean, good quality air filter in their ventilation systems and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles.

The region is also currently under a heat warning.

When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, the weather office said people should prioritize keeping cool.

They should also check in on others who are in their care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution.