UPDATE 8:30 am
Environment Canada has now issued an Air Quality Warning for all of southern Manitoba for Monday.
Smoke from wildfires in northern Manitoba and northern Saskatchewan is causing very poor air quality and reduced visibility.
The smoke will improve in most locations this morning, once the rain starts.
It notes that as smoke levels increase, health risks increase, and residents are asked to limit their time outdoors and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities, and events.
Adding that people more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution are those individuals aged 65 and older, pregnant, infants and young children. People with an existing illness or chronic health condition should also reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough.
Residents of southeastern Manitoba are encouraged to keep their windows and doors closed as much as possible and to make sure they have a good quality air filter in their ventilation system.
If someone needs to spend time outdoors, they are asked to wear a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator-type mask like an N95. This can reduce exposure to the fine particles in the smoke.
Environment Canada also suggests that residents check in with our neighbours and those who may be more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution.
Learn more at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.
