A special air quality statement issued for much of east-central and southern Alberta Wednesday afternoon was lifted for Edmonton and surrounding areas Thursday morning.
The statement was issued as smoke from the B.C. wildfires lingered in the region for much of Wednesday.
The Capital Region remained hazy on Thursday morning, but Edmonton’s air quality was at a 2 on the health index, which is on the low-risk end of the scale. Edmonton and the surrounding area could see the air quality reach a 4 on Thursday, which is a moderate risk, according to Environment Canada.
Areas to the west and east of the city remained under an air quality statement Thursday, including the Jasper and Lloydminster areas. The special air quality statement also remained in place for much of southern Alberta.
READ MORE: Special air quality statement for Calgary continues Thursday, AQHI forecast to be ‘high’
The smoke caused poor air quality and reduced visibility in the Capital Region for much of Wednesday.
A cold front moved into central and southern Alberta overnight, which caused the smoke in the area to surface, the agency said.
READ MORE: Current location of wildfires around B.C.
When the air quality is poor, people may notice symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors and those with cardiovascular or lung disease are especially at risk.
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People with breathing difficulties are advised to stay inside, where it’s cool and ventilated.
For a complete list of areas under the special air quality statement and to monitor Edmonton’s Air Quality Health Index, visit Environment Canada’s website.
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