Calgarians woke up to a gloomy surprise Wednesday morning as smoke from wildfires burning in British Columbia had once again enveloped the city.
The return of the smoke prompted an air quality warning, which extends across the entire province of Alberta.
On the Alberta Health air quality health index sliding scale from one to 10 — 10 being the highest risk — Calgary and Airdrie were listed as 10 or 10+.
As a result, the City of Calgary has cancelled many outdoor events and closed outdoor attractions, including:
- Mobile and community adventure playgrounds
- Fit parks
- Mobile skateparks
- Spruce Cliff Zone Up
- Ranchlands Park ‘n’ Play
- Nose Hill program
Stay ‘n’ Play day camp events were also moved inside on Wednesday.
WATCH BELOW: Smoke from hundreds of wildfires in B.C. blanketed Calgary throughout Wednesday. As Blake Lough reports, it prompted safety warnings from health officials.
Theatre Calgary has also had to cancel Wednesday evening’s Shakespeare by the Bow performance of The Two Gentlemen of Verona at Prince’s Island Park because of the smoky conditions.
YYC Calgary International Airport tweeted Wednesday morning that smoke was causing low visibility, but airport operations were “normal.”
Those flying on Wednesday were still encouraged to check in with their individual airline and keep an eye on latest flight times for any potential changes.
WestJet’s ground crews could be seen wearing masks as they worked outside at the airport. A spokesperson said they were being given more breaks than usual and encouraged to drink more water.
Air Canada said it was also giving its employees smoke masks and lots of water to ensure they stayed hydrated.
“We are monitoring the situation in Calgary closely,” Air Canada said in an emailed statement. “Our pilots are highly skilled professionals and flights will continue to operate if it remains safe to do so.”
In Edmonton, the smoky haze cast an orange hue across the sky, dazzling and surprising many.