Wildfires continue to ravage Western Canada

With wildfires surging in the western provinces, vast plumes of smoke are being carried into a trough that extends across Ontario and Quebec

As wildfires continue to ravage northern British Columbia and northern Alberta, the spectre of smoky skies looms large over Western Canada.

The resurgence of these fires has triggered concerns not only for the safety of affected communities but also for the broader implications on air quality across the region.

May 12 national smoke unblurred

With wildfires surging in the western provinces, vast plumes of smoke are being carried into a trough that extends across Ontario and Quebec. That means that residents in these eastern provinces will soon find themselves under hazy skies as smoke filters across the region.

Forecasters predict that the smoke will slowly make its way across the province, reaching southern Ontario as early as Monday evening. While most of the smoke is expected to remain at higher altitudes, some will inevitably descend to ground level, impacting air quality in affected areas.

May 12 low level smoke Ontario forecast unblurred

Implications for air quality

The infiltration of smoke into populated areas poses significant risks to air quality, with potential health consequences for vulnerable populations, including children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions.

Alberta air quality chart May 12 unblurred

Authorities are urging residents to take necessary precautions to protect their health. This includes staying indoors when possible, especially for those in high-risk groups.

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Thumbnail credit: Photo by Kym MacKinnon for Unsplash