Air quality warning issued as wildfire smoke blankets Manitoba

Thick wildfire smoke drifting down from northern Manitoba has prompted Environment Canada to issue an air quality warning for much of the province.

The earlier special air quality statement was upgraded as out-of-control wildfires continue to burn in the north, pushing thick smoke into southern Manitoba and as far away as the American border states.

 Environment Canada says smoke is causing very poor air quality and reduced visibility. 

The smoke is expected to clear throughout the morning as some much-needed rain falls across the province. 

Environment Canada says that as smoke levels increase, health risks increase. They are encouraging people to limit time outdoors and to consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports. 

People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution include people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors.

Anyone inside is encouraged to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.  

The Manitoba Wildfire Service continues to respond to 25 active wildfires across the province, a total of 106 wildfires to date, well above the average for this date of 84 total fires.