By Chris Brown

Wildfire smoke from B.C.

City’s air quality rated high risk, special statement issued

Jul 23, 2021 | 4:25 PM

MEDICINE HAT, AB – Wildfire smoke is blowing in from B.C. and is expected to stick around Medicine Hat for the weekend.

Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for all areas of southern Alberta and into southwestern Saskatchewan.

Medicine Hat’s air quality on Friday afternoon is rated at 8 out of 10, which is considered high risk. it is expected to taper off to 5, moderate risk, by Saturday evening.

Special air quality statement in effect for:

• City of Medicine Hat
• Co. of Forty Mile near Bow Island and Whitla
• Co. of Newell near Patricia
• Co. of Newell near Tilley and Rolling Hills
• Cypress Co. near Bowell and Redcliff
• Cypress Co. near Bowmanton Schuler and Hilda
• Cypress Co. near CFB Suffield
• Cypress Co. near Dunmore and Woolchester
• Cypress Co. near Irvine and Walsh
• Cypress Co. near McNeill and Sandy Point District Park
• Cypress Co. near Seven Persons
• Cypress Co. near Suffield and Hwy 879
• Cypress Co. near Tide Lake
• S.A. 2 near Bindloss Empress and Social Plains
• S.A. 2 near Buffalo and Cavendish
• S.A. 2 near Iddesleigh and Dinosaur Prov. Park
• S.A. 2 near Jenner and Atlee

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Wildfire smoke from B.C. is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility.

Air quality conditions are expected to improve by Sunday.

Poor air quality due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.

Be air aware! Check your local weather forecasts and alerts so you know when to take extra care.

If you or those in your care are exposed to wildfire smoke, consider taking extra precautions to reduce your exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gasses which includes many chemicals that can harm your health. More details can be found at canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change.

For more information please visit Alberta Health Services at albertahealthservices.ca/news/air.aspx.