Amid the ongoing forest fires, smog warnings and air quality statements were issued early Friday for a significant portion of Quebec, including Montreal.
According to Environment Canada, there are “high concentrations of fine particulate matter” due to the continuing wildfires, resulting in poor air quality for the entire day.
Hazy conditions and smoke are expected in various areas, such as Vaudreuil-Soulanges, Gatineau, Lanaudière, and the Laurentians.
The weather agency stated, “Smog especially affects asthmatic children and people with respiratory ailments or heart disease. It is therefore recommended that these individuals avoid intense physical activity outdoors until the smog warning is lifted.”
The Montreal public health department advised that exposure to smoke may cause symptoms such as itchy eyes, sore throat, headache, and a mild cough. They recommend staying indoors, closing the windows, turning off the air exchanger, and avoiding outdoor physical activity during periods of smog.
Anyone concerned about their health can contact the 811 health hotline or call 911 for medical emergencies.
The smog warnings come as wildfires continue to burn in northern and western Quebec. Local firefighters, as well as support from abroad, are working tirelessly to extinguish the flames.
The province’s forest fire prevention agency, SOPFEU, reported 104 active fires on Friday, with 22 of them classified as out of control.
— with files from The Canadian Press
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