An air quality warning remains in effect for the Calgary area as wildfire smoke continues to hang over the city, reducing visibility and posing health risks to residents. The smoke, which rolled in Monday afternoon, has prompted Environment Canada to issue an advisory that remains active as of Tuesday.
Current Conditions and Forecast
According to Environment and Climate Change Canada meteorologist Brian Proctor, Tuesday's risk levels were initially forecast at around 8 on the Air Quality Health Index, which falls within the high-risk range. However, actual levels were sitting at a 6, or moderate risk, on Tuesday afternoon. "We're a little bit better than what the forecast is suggesting, but we're definitely seeing an increase in the amount of smoke out there, and it should be decreasing in its intensity through the evening tonight," Proctor said.
Conditions are expected to improve throughout the day Wednesday as the weather pattern shifts.
Source of the Smoke
The smoke originates from wildfires in northern Saskatchewan and Manitoba, as well as the southern portion of the Northwest Territories. Proctor explained that a low pressure system responsible for the weekend's heavy rainfall is moving slowly eastward, and the return flow has brought smoke from these fires south and west into central Alberta and the foothills. "We're expecting gradual improvement as those low pressure areas drift ever so slowly eastwards," he said.
While there are smaller fires scattered throughout Alberta, the most active areas are currently east of the province. Proctor noted that those regions have been "exceptionally dry," contrasting with the wetter conditions in central and southern Alberta. "It's really the smoke that's from the fires east of us that's affecting us now," he said.
Health Risks and Precautions
Poor air quality poses the greatest risk to seniors, infants, young children, pregnant individuals, people with existing illnesses or chronic health conditions, and those working outdoors. Environment Canada advises these groups to avoid strenuous outdoor activities where possible and to seek medical attention if symptoms develop. Mild symptoms may include eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, or a mild cough. More severe but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains, or a severe cough.
To protect indoor air quality, residents are encouraged to keep windows closed and use a high-quality air filter. If spending time outdoors is necessary, a respirator mask can help reduce exposure and associated health risks.
Long-Term Outlook
Looking ahead, Proctor noted that July is typically one of southern Alberta's rainiest months and is predicted to see normal precipitation levels but higher-than-average temperatures. "Given the amount of moisture that we've got out there, and warmer-than-normal conditions, it's implying that we should be prepared for a fairly significant severe weather outlook period as we move into the summer," he said. He also expressed concern about potential fires in British Columbia that could affect southern Alberta as July progresses.
