Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement due to wildfire smoke, June 15, 2023. (Photo: Environment Canada)

By David Opinko

UPDATED

Special air quality statement issued for parts of southern Alberta

Jun 15, 2023 | 4:21 PM

UPDATE – June 16, 2023 at 5:30 a.m.

LETHBRIDGE, AB – The special air quality statement has ended for Lethbridge and surrounding areas. However, it remains in effect for the City of Calgary and other parts of the province.

A full list of the communities still impacted is available from Environment Canada.

ORGINAL STORY – June 15, 2023 at 4:21 p.m.

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Environment Canada is asking the public to limit how much time they are spending outdoors.

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The weather agency has issued a special air quality statement for several communities in southern Alberta, including Lethbridge, Coaldale, Taber, Milk River, Cardston, Claresholm, and Calgary.

They say wildfire smoke is causing or is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility at times.

According to Environment Canada, air quality and visibility can fluctuate over short distances and vary considerably from hour-to-hour.

“Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations. Continue to take actions to protect your health and reduce exposure to smoke,” said Environment Canada.

It continues, “People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke.”

More information on weather alerts in Canada are on the Environment Canada website.

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