WATCH ABOVE: The smoky haze continues to blanket a large portion of our province. The Air Quality Health Index in Lethbrige is expected to hit 11, impacting those trying to enjoy the outdoors. Quinn Campbell reports.
LETHBRIDGE- If you’ve spent any time outside over the last couple of days, you can’t help but notice the thick smoke coating the sky. Alberta Health Services issued an air quality advisory for Lethbridge on Monday, and it has remained in effect ever since.
Dr. Karin Goodison with Alberta Health Services said the air quality could change rapidly.
“We can’t predict the smoke 100 per cent of the time; it could get higher and then that can impact the general public.”
For most of Wednesday, the Air Quality Health Index was at five, but expected to reach as high as 11 on a one to 10 scale. By Thursday, it should be down to seven.
Businesses like Evergreen Golf Centre are keeping an eye on the sky. Kevin Hamilton is a co-manager at the centre and said the smoke-filled air isn’t ideal for golfers.
“When hitting balls on the driving range, it’s a little harder to pick up the flight of the golf ball sometimes because of the haze.”
Ten-year-old Corbin Derochie has asthma, and said he takes breaks from practicing his swing to escape the smoky air.
“You can really smell it, it makes my eyes itchy and I sneeze and cough,” said Corbin.
For golfers taking to the greens, Hamilton suggests customers don’t over do it.
“We do have power carts. If they have difficulties breathing, they can get on a power cart and be a little more relaxed that way,” said Hamilton. “The miniature golf isn’t a high, intense type of activity either.”
The air quality is continuously changing and Alberta Health Services says if you’re concerned at all about the smoke, it’s best to stay in doors.
READ MORE: Third day of poor air quality in Calgary causes health concerns
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