Most of Saskatchewan is under a special air quality statement for Wednesday as smoke from wildfires in Western Canada spreads across the province.
Environment Canada said poor air quality and diminished visibility will be widespread while smoke remains in place.
Conditions are expected to improve Thursday in central regions, but hazy conditions are expected to persist in the south for several more days.
“We’re seeing a westerly flow that’s pulling in that B.C. wildfire smoke into the pPairies, and smoke is really tough to forecast, but we are expecting it to continue over the next couple of days.” Global Regina Meteorologist Tiffany Lizée said.
“Saskatoon will likely see some clearing throughout Thursday, but areas like Regina and throughout southern Saskatchewan can expect the smoke throughout the day Friday as well.”
Some doctors have reported an uptick in patients with respiratory issues as a result of the smoke.
“Right now in Saskatchewan, the air has a lot of smoke in it, especially in the area where I live here in the Battlefords. Everybody can have some health effects,” noted Dr. Mandiangu Nsungu, a medical health officer with the Saskatchewan Health Authority.
“I have seen people of different ages with more respiratory symptoms. Some of them also have a skin rash or itchiness under the eyes,” Dr. Enrique Filomeno, a family physician in Regina said.
According to Nsungu, the severity of symptoms can vary by individual. Where they’re situated in the province, but he noted that the denser the smoke, the higher the risk.
Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease are especially at risk. People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution, but the symptoms don’t discriminate.
“I have seen people that usually take, let’s say, this amount of medication, now they’re taking more. Also, somebody who has no medical condition, they are presenting respiratory symptoms,” Filomeno added.
People may experience difficulty breathing and have symptoms such as coughing, throat irritation, headaches and shortness of breath.
Anyone experiencing any of these symptoms should avoid spending time outside and find an indoor space with clean air and good ventilation to spend time.
For advice on health risks, symptoms or precautions associated with heat or smoke, contact the Saskatchewan HealthLine at 811.
For the latest weather alerts, download the Global News SkyTracker weather app.
With files from Colton Praill
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