Smoke from prescribed burn causing ‘poor air quality’ in Jasper area: Environment Canada

Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement for parts of west-central Alberta on Tuesday evening, saying the air people in the area breathe is being impacted by a fire burning in the Jasper area.

“Smoke from a prescribed burn at Henry House Flats is causing locally poor air quality near Jasper and Hinton,” the weather agency said on its website shortly before 6:30 p.m.

“Conditions are expected to remain poor this evening.”

The weather alert was issued for parts of Jasper National Park, the M.D. of Greenview, Yellowhead County and Willmore Wilderness Park.

READ MORE: Alberta ready as wildfire season starts March 1

The statement warns people could potentially experience throat irritation, coughing, headaches or shortness of breath because of the smoke.

“Children, seniors and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk,” Environment Canada said.

For tips on what to do when air quality in your area is reduced, click here.

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