NORTHERN ONTARIO — Almost the entirety of Northwestern Ontario is under some kind of air quality alert due to wildfire smoke.
Only the very northern reaches of the province near the Hudson Bay coast — including Fort Severn and Peawanuck — and a small area south of White River to the Lake Superior shore weren’t affected as of Thursday afternoon.
The more serious warnings are in the far western parts of the region from the Manitoba border north to areas like Sachigo Lake, east to the James Bay coast and as far south as Eabametoong. The rest of the region — including Thunder Bay — is under a special air quality statement.
“Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility,” the bulletins read. “Wildfire smoke may remain in place for the next several days for some areas.”
The air quality statement covering Thunder Bay west to Fort Frances noted that “while conditions have improved near the Minnesota border, smoke is expected to spread south over the area again today and tonight.”
Numerous large forest fires continue to burn in Northwestern Ontario and in the Prairies, causing a litany of air quality alerts.
“People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including 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, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms,” the weather office’s alerts said.
“During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status. Limit time outdoors. Reschedule or cancel outdoor sports, activities and events.”
More mild and common symptoms include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough, according to the air quality advisories. More serious symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe coughing.
Keeping windows and doors closed, along with having clean filters in ventilation systems and/or a proper portable air cleaner can help maintain indoor air quality, Environment Canada said.