Smoke that is drifting over the Rockies is causing poor air quality and has reduced visibility for the Cochrane region. 

The smoke has elevated levels of fine particulate matter and Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for Cochrane. 

The air quality and the visibility due to wildfire smoke can change considerably each hour. 

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.