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For weeks, much of Manitoba has been shrouded in wildfire smoke, and Monday is no exception.
Environment Canada and Manitoba Health have issued and extended special air quality statements for a large swath of the province, warning that smoke from northern Prairie wildfires will continue to impact southern Manitoba through the day.
Winnipeg, Brandon, the Interlake, and communities stretching from the Whiteshell to the Turtle Mountains remain under the advisory, along with areas as far north as Grand Rapids. Meanwhile, much of Northern Manitoba is under an air quality warning.
While parts of the Interlake could see temporary improvement later today, forecasters say another plume of smoke is expected to drift south overnight.
“Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour,” the statement reads.
Health officials are urging residents to limit time outdoors, especially vulnerable groups such as older adults, pregnant people, infants, young children, those with chronic health conditions, and people who work outside.
Common symptoms of smoke exposure include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, and mild coughing. More serious effects — such as wheezing, chest pains or a severe cough — require immediate medical attention.
Officials recommend keeping windows and doors closed, using a high-quality air filter or certified portable air cleaner, and wearing a properly fitted respirator mask like an N95 if outdoor exposure is unavoidable.
The statement also reminds residents to check on neighbours or others in their care who may be more affected by poor air quality.