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Region braces for special air quality statement

PHOTO. A quick look down Franklin Ave. outside of the Jubilee Centre reveals smoky conditions as well as rainclouds in the background. MYMCMURRAY.COM/Phil Wood.

A special air quality statement issued by Environment Canada rolls into the region, but expect rainy weather to follow.

Wildfires burning in the province are producing smoky conditions for Wood Buffalo.

Fortunately, Lynn Dayna of Alberta Wildfire, says there are no fires currently burning in our area.

“This is coming straight out of High Level, Slave Lake, and Peace River. Southwest [and] mainly west wind driving the smoke right now, so that’s why we’re getting socked in from those out of control fires that are to the west.”

Environment Canada expects showers today and tomorrow.

Dayna says rain and wind determine just how long the smoke will linger.

“If we don’t get the precipitation, then it get socked in. It’s all based on the wind.”

Due to the expectant rainfall, Alberta Wildfire set the wildfire threat level for the region to high.

Health tips

Staying informed and safe during a special air quality statement is important.

Environment Canada strongly recommends seniors, children, and people with respiratory conditions stay indoors.

One could experience symptoms like coughing, shortness of breath, throat irritation and headaches.

Call Alberta Health 811 with questions about respiratory issues, and what to do during an air quality statement.

Lynn Dayna of Alberta Wildfire also recommends using the Alberta Wildfire app and tracking the smoke in real-time on the FireSmoke website.