A smoke event will occur in western and central Alberta beginning today.
Forest fires in BC are generating huge amounts of smoke over western Canada. This smoke will cross the Rockies through the day today.
Due to the smoke, the AQHI will likely reach above 10, or very high risk, in parts of western and central Alberta today. There is some uncertainty as to where the thickest smoke will set up, but current indications are that the corridor of thickest smoke and thus poorest air quality will be between Hinton, Red Deer, and Edmonton.
The smoke will remain over western and central Alberta until at least Thursday afternoon or evening, when thunderstorms may flush out some of the smoke.
Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.
In general, wearing a mask is not the best way to protect your health during a smoke event. In fact, masks may lead to a false sense of security, which may encourage increased physical activity and time spent outdoors, meaning increased exposure to smoke. They can also make breathing more difficult.
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