Wildfire smoke from fires raging across B.C. and the western U.S. has been drifting into Alberta over the past few days and has worsened overnight to where air quality in Cochrane has entered the High-Risk range.  

According to Environment Canada, as of 8:00 am Sunday, July 18th the Air Quality Health Index in Cochrane is now rated at 10 on the scale.  The scale is broken down into sections with 1 to 3 being Low Risk, 4 to 6 being Moderate Risk, and 7 to 10 a High Risk.  The scale goes up to 10 + and, when it enters that range, the risk is called Very High. 

The scale also rates what it calls the forecast maximums over the next two days and it does not bode well for anyone with breathing problems.  It predicts the air quality in Cochrane will stay in the 10 + or Very High range right through Sunday night.  On Monday it's forecast to drop back down, although not a great deal.  The forecast for Monday says the risk will be High at a 9 but by tomorrow night should be back to a Moderate Risk, rated at 6. 

Environment Canada says poor air quality can be dangerous to anyone but especially those people who are at risk. Anyone with existing respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, young children and seniors, those who are active outdoors, and pregnant women fall under that category.

At-risk people are advised to reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors

Even if you're not included in these groups, you may still feel symptoms due to the thick smoke.  Consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.

 

Air Quality from Environment Canada