Wildfire smoke pushing eastward across southern Manitoba: ECCC

4 days ago

As a new week begins, much of Manitoba is being warned about wildfire smoke and poor air quality around the province.
On Monday morning, Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued special air quality statements and warnings for a number of Manitoba communities, including Winnipeg, Brandon, Portage la Prairie, Selkirk and Steinbach.
According to the weather agency, smoke from the northern wildfires is continuing to move eastward across southern Manitoba. It notes that some Interlake regions may see improved conditions later on Monday; however, another plume of smoke is expected to move southwards in the evening so it will only be a short break from the poor air quality.
As the province deals with poor air quality, ECCC reminds Manitobans that as smoke levels increase, so do health risks. Those most likely to be impacted include people over the age of 65, pregnant people, infants and young kids, those with chronic health conditions and people who work outdoors.
Common symptoms from air pollution are headaches, a mild cough, and eye, nose and throat irritation. More serious symptoms are wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.
To avoid these risks, ECCC recommends limiting time outdoors, keeping windows and doors closed, and using a good quality air filter in your ventilation system. Those who must spend time outside should wear a well-fitting respirator-type mask.
As of Monday at 9:30 a.m., the air quality health index in Winnipeg is at a seven, which means it's high risk. However, ECCC predicts it will climb to a 10 throughout the day on Monday.