Smoke from wildfires in northeast Alberta is spreading into Saskatchewan.
Environment Canada has issued special air quality statements for several areas in Saskatchewan’s west, and, according to BlueSky Canada’s smoke forecast, smoke is covering much of central Saskatchewan and will continue to blanket the province well into Friday.
“Northwest winds are spreading smoke from wildfires in northeast Alberta into portions of western Saskatchewan today,” Environment Canada’s air quality statements read.
The advisories are so far covering the province’s Ile a la Crosse, La Loche, Meadow Lake, Battleford and Martensville-Warman areas, as well as Saskatoon and Prince Albert.
People with cardiovascular or lung diseases — such as asthma — are especially at risk, according to the weather agency.
“Smoke may produce poor air quality and reduced visibilities in some areas especially closer to the fire source and near the Alberta border. Smoke near the ground is causing very high health risk conditions,” Environment Canada states.
The BlueSky Canada smoke forecast — an initiative from the University of British Columbia and the Alberta and B.C. governments — shows smoke from the Alberta wildfires heading southeast into Saskatchewan. Most of Saskatchewan’s south will be blanketed in smoke by Thursday night and will remain covered Friday, according to the forecast.
Environment Canada’s air quality rating for Saskatoon is currently listed as “high risk,” meaning seniors and children, or anyone with heart and lung conditions, should avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Others should consider rescheduling physical outdoor exercise.
Regina and Prince Albert are currently listed as “moderate risk,” while Swift Current’s air quality is considered “low risk.”
