Environment Canada issues air quality warning, severe thunderstorm watch for Ottawa

Rain falls on Carp Road in Carp on Thursday, July 9. (Peter Szperling/CTV News Ottawa)

Environment Canada issued a pair of weather alerts for the Ottawa area, warning residents of poor air quality and the possibility of a severe thunderstorm.

Shortly after 12:30 p.m., the organization issued a yellow-level watch for a severe thunderstorm and a yellow-level warning for poor air quality.

Air quality warning

Smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario is expected in Ottawa today.

At 2 p.m., the air quality index was at a 6, which is considered moderate risk. Environment Canada’s forecast indicates the air quality index may reach as high as 8 by this evening, which is considered high risk.

“Air quality and visibility due to wildfires smoke can change rapidly over short distances and from hour to hour,” Environment Canada’s alert reads.

“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.”

Environment Canada says exposure to wildfire smoke may cause mild symptoms like eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. Severe symptoms include wheezing, chest paints or severe cough. Those experiencing severe symptoms should seek medical attention.

Those most likely to be affected by wildfire smoke included people 65 or older, pregnant people, infants, young children and people with existing illnesses or chronic health conditions. Those who work outdoors should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities.

Environment Canada recommends keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible, using an air filtration or ventilation system and wearing a mask when outdoors.

Environment Canada says a “major” air quality improvement is expected on Sunday.

Severe Thunderstorm watch

Environment Canada says conditions are favourable for a severe thunderstorm that could produce 110km/h wind gusts, quarter-sized hail, 30 to 50 mm of rain, and a risk of tornado.

The storm could arrive this afternoon or early evening.

The organization says driving conditions may be poor, and localized power outages could occur. Roofs, fences, tree branches or soft shelters could be damaged in the storm.

“When thunder roars, go indoors! Lightning kills and injures Canadians every year. Secure loose objects.Emergency Management Ontario recommends that you take cover immediately if threatening weather approaches,” Environment Canada said.

Forecast

According to the weather forecast for the capital, showers are expected to begin around 8 a.m. and continue until around 10 p.m. Throughout the day, there is also a risk of thunderstorms.

Environment Canada say local smoke is expected to arrive late this morning and will remain into the evening. The air quality index may reach as high as 7.

• Hourly and 7-day forecast on our CTVNewsOttawa.ca weather hub

Sunday is expected to be a clear and sunny day with a high of 23 C.

Monday will also be sunny with a temperature high of 25 and a chance of showers in the evening.

Tuesday, expect showers and 23 C.

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