As wildfire smoke blankets the city, environmental and health authorities are warning Calgarians about the dangers from the heavy pollution levels.
Environment Canada, Alberta Environment and Protected Areas, Alberta Health, and AHS issued an air quality warning on June 11, as the air quality health index (AQHI) spiked overnight.
Data collected by the Calgary Region Airshed Zone showed that the AQHI rose to as high as 18 overnight, prompting the warning to be issued at 4 a.m.
Any AQHI levels over 10 are considered a very high risk to health.
“People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms,” said Environment Canada.
“You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.”
The forecast AQHI maximum for June 11 is expected to remain over 10.
Wildfires in northern British Columbia and Alberta have blown smoke across North America, to as far as the eastern seaboard in the United States.
