(650 CKOM file photo)

By CKOM News

Wildfire smoke pushes Saskatoon air quality health index to highest value

Jul 16, 2021 | 12:46 PM

Wildfires burning in northern Saskatchewan are producing poor air quality and reduced visibility in central Saskatchewan.

By Friday morning, Environment Canada had Saskatoon’s air quality index listed at 10-plus, the highest the index can go.

There is a very high risk of coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.

“Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk,” the air quality statement from Environment Canada read.

The general population is asked to reduce strenuous activity or physical exertion with the air quality being so poor.

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Areas downwind from the fires can expect to see a smoky haze for the rest of Friday before a low pressure weather system and changing wind directions are expected to improve visibility and air quality Saturday.

Prince Albert’s air quality index is listed at seven, while Swift Current’s air quality index is nine.

Numerous forest fires in northern Saskatchewan are producing reduced visibilities in smoke and poor air quality for communities near and downwind of the fires.

“As a cold front pushes through the region this morning, the wind direction will switch to blow from the north. This will result in a return to smoky conditions later today to areas south of the fires,” Environment Canada said Friday.

People with lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.

The Saskatchewan Health Authority is asking people to reduce their risk indoors by closing all windows and turning air conditioning systems on to the “recirculate” setting and keeping the fresh-air intake closed.

As well, the entire southern half of the province was under a heat warning, with daytime highs in the mid- to low 30s.

“A cold front will push southwards into central Saskatchewan today, easing the extreme heat through portions of the region later tonight,” Environment Canada said. “Areas further south will see the heat remain in place for the weekend with some areas getting a brief reprieve to start next week with highs reaching the high 20s.

“However, the heat wave will redevelop over the Prairies thereafter, bringing the return of extreme heat to much of the southern and central Prairies through to the end of next week.”