Smoky Conditions in Coaldale -- LNN

By Dori Modney

Air quality warning across most of Alberta – Heat warning for the south-east

Jul 18, 2021 | 11:10 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB. — Smoke from BC wildfires continues to cause air quality concerns across most of Alberta including the south and there is a Heat Warning for the South-east region.

Air quality indexes are reported as high in many parts of Alberta this morning. The national weather agency says in Southern Alberta the air quality index is projected to be moderate by Monday as Southeasterly winds move through.

Drone capture of #YQL Coulees and residential area Sunday morning – credit Joshua Iverson

To give you an idea of how close the fires are to the Alberta/B.C. border, two 100-hectare fires are out-of-control south-east of Wasa Lake in the East Kootenays. Residents can see he flames from their decks. One fire grew from .6 of a hectare to 100-hectares just overnight.

Residents are reminded to take extra precautions for their health and safety. Limit strenuous outdoor activities, take frequent breaks and stay hydrated while smoke continues to restrict local air quality.

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Residents should also monitor signs and symptoms of smoke inhalation, as prolonged exposure to excessive pollution or smoke can impact a person’s health, including irritating lungs and airways, difficulty breathing or worsening chronic diseases such as heart disease, chronic bronchitis, emphysema or asthma.

Environment Canada Smoke and Heat Warnings

Environment Canada recommendations regarding heat:

– Consider rescheduling outdoor activities to cooler hours of the day.
– Take frequent breaks from the heat, spending time in cooled indoor spaces where possible.
– Drink plenty of water and other non-alcoholic, non-caffeinated beverages to stay hydrated.
– Check for your children or pets before you exit your vehicle. Do not leave any person or pet inside a closed vehicle, for any length of time.

Monitor for symptoms of heat stroke or heat exhaustion, such as high body temperature, lack of sweat, confusion, fainting, and unconsciousness.

Pay particular attention to individuals that can experience earlier or more severe effects from heat including infants, children, seniors, and individuals with pre-existing lung, heart, kidney, nervous system, mental health or diabetic conditions, outdoor workers, as well as those who are socially isolated.