Edmontonians were advised to be aware of poor air quality in the city and surrounding areas on Monday as Environment Canada warned the issue “will likely be worse during the afternoon and evening hours.”
“A stagnant weather pattern is causing pollutants to build up near the surface, leading to poor air quality,” the weather agency said in a special air quality statement issued just after noon.
“The poor air quality may persist for most of the week.”
“An area of high pressure is leading to stable conditions, trapping particulate matter at the surface,” said Global Edmonton meteorologist Jesse Beyer. “This will lead to reduced air quality in Edmonton and surrounding area.”
According to Environment Canada, people with lung diseases are most at risk from the air pollution and said poor air quality can lead to more medication use, doctor and emergency room visits and hospital visits.
It also warned that children and seniors are more vulnerable to the effects of poor air quality than others, as are people with diabetes or heart problems.
“If you are experiencing symptoms, such as coughing or throat irritation, consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities until the special air quality statement is lifted,” the weather agency said in a post on its website.
For more information on what to do when an air quality alert is in please, click on Alberta Health Services’ website.