Calgary under special air quality statement due to B.C. wildfire smoke

The heat warning which blanketed Calgary and most of southern Alberta this week ended Friday, and was promptly replaced with a special air quality statement due to wildfire smoke.

Wildfire smoke from raging fires in B.C. is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility in the city, according to Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC).

Friday morning saw a rating of four for Calgary, considered moderate risk, though forecasts show conditions are expected to worsen throughout the day.

By the evening, the city is predicted to reach a seven on the air quality health index scale, considered high risk.

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ECCC says smoke considerations can change over short distances and from hour to hour.

Poor air quality can affect the health of everyone, even at low concentrations.

However, people with lung disease, heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and those who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke.

Individuals should stop or reduce activity if breathing becomes uncomfortable.

Drinking lots of water can help the body cope with smoke, according to the agency.