Air quality expected to worsen as wildfire smoke moves into region

CTV London Meteorologist Julie Atchison has the latest forecast as a pocket of heat continues to blast southern Ontario.

Air quality is expected to deteriorate later today as smoke from wildfires burning in northwestern Ontario drifts into the region. Poor air quality conditions may persist through Friday.

Health officials warn that heavy wildfire smoke can affect everyone, regardless of age or health status.

Residents are encouraged to limit time outdoors and consider postponing or cancelling outdoor sports, activities and events while air quality remains poor.

The heat that’s been a suffocating presence in the region throughout the week will also persist today, with a heat warning in effect and temperatures climbing quickly.

“Through the afternoon we’ll hit 33 feeling like a 38,” predicted CTV London Meterologist Julie Atchison. “Take lots of breaks, find shady spots, keep it cool.”

There is a chance for scattered showers this afternoon that could offer a small reprieve from the heat.

“We’ll also have to contend with some haze,” warned Atchison. Forest fires in northern Ontario could contribute to that haze, which will hang in the heat. “The winds as we head into the afternoon will come around to the northwest and as a result we could see some of that smoke filtering in,” cautioned Atchison.

“[The] next opportunity for rain [will be] coming in on Friday night,” said Atchison. Temperatures are expected to moderate closer to seasonal as we approach the weekend.

The hot and dry conditions have resulted in a burn ban issued for the entirety of Middlesex County starting today, which officials say will remain in place “until weather conditions improve.”

Here’s a full look at the forecast

Wednesday: Mainly cloudy. 30 per cent chance of showers this afternoon with risk of a thunderstorm. Widespread smoke. Wind becoming northwest 20 km/h near noon. High 31. Humidex 40. UV index 9 or very high.

Wednesday evening: Partly cloudy. 30 per cent chance of showers early this evening with risk of a thunderstorm. Widespread smoke. Wind northwest 20 km/h becoming light this evening. Low 20.

Thursday: Widespread smoke. Wind becoming northwest 20 km/h near noon. High 30. Humidex 33. UV index 9 or very high.

Friday: A mix of sun and cloud with 30 per cent chance of showers. High 29.

Saturday: Cloudy with 30 per cent chance of showers. High 29.

Sunday: A mix of sun and cloud. High 27.