Smoke from wildfires has caused poor air quality for the Cochrane area which has reduced visibility for the area and elevated values of fine particulate matter.

This has prompted Environment Canada to issue a Special Air Quality Statement for Cochrane and other areas surrounding our town. 

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.

Also included in the special statement is:

  • 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