A haze of wildfire smoke is lingering over the Edmonton region, prompting an air quality warning from Environment Canada. The smoke is coming from fires in northern Saskatchewan. As of Monday afternoon, the city’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) sat at “moderate risk,” where it is advised that at-risk folks consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if they are experiencing symptoms. Those at risk of experiencing symptoms due to poor air quality are seniors, pregnant people, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, those involved in strenuous outdoor exercise, and people with an existing illness or chronic health conditions like diabetes, cancer, or lung and heart disease. Symptoms include irritated eyes, increased mucus production in the nose or throat, coughing, or difficulty breathing, especially during exercise. Environment Canada is forecasting a moderate AQHI through to at least Tuesday night. Alberta Wildfire said the smoke is blowing in from central and northern regions in Saskatchewan and Manitoba. There are currently 21 active fires burning in Alberta, most of which are in the north.
