Airdrie’s air quality could reach a very high risk level by Wednesday afternoon, according to a federal forecast that lists the Air Quality Health Index at 10-plus — the top of the scale — due to wildfire smoke in the region.
Environment Canada issued an air quality warning early Wednesday for Rocky View County near Airdrie and Crossfield. As of 6 a.m., Airdrie’s AQHI stood at 7, already classified as high risk.
"Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility," the agency stated in its 4:05 a.m. advisory. "Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour."
According to federal health guidance, those at greater risk include individuals aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, those with existing illnesses or chronic health conditions, and those who work outdoors. The agency warned that vulnerable groups should avoid strenuous activities outside and seek medical attention if symptoms develop.
"During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status," the advisory said.
Environment Canada said common symptoms may include eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, or a mild cough. More serious symptoms, such as wheezing, chest pains or a severe cough, require immediate medical attention.
The index is forecast to drop to 8 Wednesday night and moderate to 4 by Thursday, according to Environment Canada.
The agency recommends all residents limit time outdoors, keep windows and doors closed, and avoid outdoor sports or events. It further advises using a clean, good quality air filter in home ventilation systems or certified portable air cleaners that can filter fine particles. Those who must go outside are urged to wear a well-constructed, well-fitting, and properly worn respirator mask such as a NIOSH-certified N95.
"A well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke," the agency said. "Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health."
Environment Canada urged residents to check in on others who may be more affected by smoke and to continue monitoring alerts. Full guidance is available at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke and airhealth.ca.
At 5 a.m., the local forecast confirmed widespread smoke would persist through Wednesday, with southeast winds gusting to 40 kilometres per hour by midday and a high of 23. Showers and thunderstorms are expected Wednesday evening, with smoke becoming local near midnight and up to 15 millimetres of rainfall possible.
Thursday’s forecast calls for a high of 16, with showers tapering in the morning and a 60 per cent chance of additional rain in the afternoon. Smoke and thunderstorm risk will continue, with southeast wind gusts returning near noon. Showers will resume Thursday night with a low of 9.
Friday is expected to be sunny with a high of 21. Saturday will bring a mix of sun and cloud and a 30 per cent chance of showers.
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