Air quality advisory issued as smoke levels climb in Lethbridge region, southern Alberta

Environment & Climate Change Canada issued a Yellow Warning for Air Quality for much of southern Alberta late Thursday afternoon saying smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility.

“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events,” the weather agency said in a statement.

“You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.”

The advisory came shortly after the Air Quality Health Index for the City of Lethbridge spiked at 7, or high, on a scale of ten-plus, after being at 6 earlier in the day.