ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½ and much of the GTA are under a special air quality statement as smoke from forest fires in northern Ontario pushes into the region, Environment Canada warned Sunday night.Â
The agency says westerly winds are carrying smoke into the area, reducing visibility and pushing the to seven, classified as “high risk.” Poor air quality is expected to persist into Monday, Environment Canada added.
Residents are advised to limit the time spent outdoors and consider rescheduling outdoor sports or events. Mild symptoms include eye, nose, or throat irritation, mild coughing or headaches.
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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 are most at risk, Environment Canada says, adding that more serious symptoms such as chest pain or severe coughing should be treated as medical emergencies.Â
Environment Canada encourages residents to stay indoors, keep windows closed, use high-quality air filters or air purifiers and stay up to date on the air quality in their area.
If it comes down to choosing between avoiding smoky air or staying cool during an extreme heat event, the agency says people should prioritize keeping cool.
Allie Moustakis is a staff reporter, working out of the Star’s
radio room in ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½. Reach her via email: amoustakis@thestar.ca
Conversations are opinions of our readers and are subject to the Community Guidelines. ÎÚÑ»´«Ã½ Star does not endorse these opinions.
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