The smoky air has prompted a special air quality statement for our region. 

Environment Canada reports the smoke is coming from wildfires near Hudson Bay, SK.

As a result the haze is causing elevated values of fine particulate matter in parts of our province, including here in Cochrane.

The conditions are expected to gradually improve from west to east but the poor air quality and reduced visibility is expected to continue throughout the evening. 

According to Environment Canada, individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung diseases are especially at risk.  People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.

Other areas included in the special air quality statement include:

  • Mountain View Co. near Carstairs and Stirlingville
  • Mountain View Co. near Cremona and Water Valley
  • Mountain View Co. near Olds and Didsbury
  • Mountain View Co. near Sundre
  • Rocky View Co. near Airdrie and Crossfield
  • Rocky View Co. near Bottrel and Madden

For more information about air quality, you can go here