UPDATE: The special air quality statement for southern Saskatchewan has been lifted in most communities. It is still in effect for some areas, including Regina and Moose Jaw.
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SOUTH SASKATCHEWAN - A special air quality statement was back in effect for much of southern Saskatchewan on Tuesday.
Environment Canada issued the statement early in the day. It included the Estevan, Weyburn, Assiniboia, Swift Current, Maple Creek and Shaunavon areas. Moose Jaw and Regina were added later.
The statement says wildfire smoke has been causing very poor air quality and reduced visibility. Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.
The combination of heat and very poor air quality in smoke will increase the risk to your health.
The fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk. As smoke levels increase, health risks increase.
People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke include seniors, pregnant women, people who smoke, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people involved in strenuous outdoor exercise and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition. Those who are more likely to be impacted should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors or seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
Call HealthLine 811 for advice on health risks, symptoms and precautions associated with air quality.
The air quality advisory that was issued Monday afternoon for much of southern Saskatchewan has now been lifted.
SaskToday.ca will have more details as they become available.
