Calgary air quality at ‘high risk’ due to wildfire smoke

Calgary is still dealing with poor air quality because of wildfire smoke drifting in from B.C., the U.S. and other parts of Alberta.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has had a special air quality statement in effect for days in Calgary. Forecast maximums are listed at a seven, or high risk, on the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI).

The agency’s meteorologist Sara Hoffman says when statements like this are issued, it’s best to avoid the outdoors altogether.

“It’s an extremely active wildfire year in B.C., as well as the western United States,” Hoffman said. “Seven-plus is our dangerous air quality value and that’s where anyone can experience any kind of adverse effects.”

The weather agency says the smoke may cause symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath in some people.

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Children, seniors, and people with cardiovascular or lung diseases, such as asthma, are especially vulnerable to wildfire smoke and should be extra careful if heading outside.

But according to Hoffman, they aren’t the only group who should consider staying indoors. She says when the AQHI reaches seven or higher, anyone and everyone is at risk.

Hoffman adds that future smoke conditions are usually hard to predict, air quality and visibility can change significantly throughout the day in different parts of Calgary.

As of Tuesday morning, the smoke in the city is forecasted to clear up by Wednesday afternoon.

“Smoke is one of the most difficult things in the world to forecast,” she said. “We can have the most certainty in about 24-hours. But beyond that it’s kind of a wait and see game unfortunately.”

For more information about the dangers of wildfire smoke, visit Environment and Climate Change Canada’s website.