Wildfire smoke triggers air quality advisory for Calgary

August 15, 2024 Canuck

An air quality advisory has been issued for Calgary as wildfire smoke affected visibility in the city on Thursday.

A special air quality statement was issued just before 2:30 a.m. Thursday, and was upgraded to an advisory at 10:30 a.m.

Air quality was deemed a very high risk as of 11 a.m. according to Environment and Climate Change Canada, with the Air Quality Health Index at 10-plus.

Much of Thursday is expected to carry an index rating of 10 — a high risk. The poor air quality is expected to continue into Friday.

Poor air quality and reduced visibility from wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances from hour to hour, Environment Canada says.

City residents are encouraged to limit their time outside and keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. Everyone is at risk regardless of their age or health.

The weather agency also recommends wearing a mask when outdoors and using an air filter or an air purifier in the home as long as it is capable of filtering out the fine particles found in wildfire smoke.

People who are sensitive to the smoke including seniors, pregnant people and infants and young children and those with existing illness or chronic health conditions are encouraged to avoid any strenuous activities outdoors until it clears up.

“Listen to your body,” the special air quality statement reads.

“Symptoms can include milder and more common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as serious but less common symptoms such as chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.”

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