City of Edmonton activates poor air quality weather response

Wildfire smoke and fog turn Edmonton's skyline hazy the morning of June 30, 2026. (Evan Klippenstein / CTV News Edmonton)

The City of Edmonton is activating its extreme weather response for poor air quality over the next few days. The response is meant to protect vulnerable people during high-risk conditions.

The poor air quality response is activated when the Air Quality Health Index is forecast to reach a score of seven or higher for at least two days in a row.

City facilities including libraries, pools and recreation centres are open for anyone who needs relief from the wildfire smoke.

Edmontonians can also find free bottled water and N95 masks at city facilities throughout the summer. A full list of locations can be found here.

People can reduce health risks and help others during periods of poor air quality by:

• keeping windows and doors closed in buildings and vehicles as much as possible;
• checking on older family members, friends and neighbours; and
• learning the health risks and symptoms of smoke exposure by visiting Alberta Health Services.

If people are concerned about someone outside in the smoke, they’re asked to call 211 and press 3 for the 24/7 Crisis Diversion team, or 911 if it’s an emergency.

The activation is expected to end on Wednesday at 9 a.m. but may be extended if poor air quality conditions continue.

The city says an extreme heat activation is also anticipated for Wednesday at 9 a.m. as well.