Air quality deteriorates in the Lethbridge region Tuesday afternoon

While local smoke is in the forecast for the Lethbridge region, and there’s been a bit of haze for the last 48 hours, or so, air quality in the city dropped Tuesday afternoon.

As of 3 p.m., the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) reading by Environment & Climate Change Canada was at 7 or High Risk, jumping from a 5 or Moderate Risk reading at 2 p.m.

Under the criteria of High Risk, those with known respiratory and heart conditions are encouraged to reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities, particularly if coughing or throat irritation is involved.

The original AQHI forecast for Tuesday daytime and evening was predicted at 4 or Moderate.