Latest news with #WeatherNetwork
Yahoo
a day ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Manitoba city records Canada's worst air quality of 2025: How wildfire smoke can impact health — and how to protect yourself, according to an expert
Wildfires in Western Canada have caused poor and at times dangerous air quality in certain parts of the country. Environment Canada has issued air quality warnings for parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba and is encouraging people, especially the elderly, pregnant people, children and people with chronic health conditions, to avoid spending time outdoors whenever possible. According to the Weather Network, Flin Flon, Man., a town located approximately 600 km north of Winnipeg, has registered the worst air quality rating in Canada this year. Canada uses the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to measure air quality on a scale from 1-10+. Environment Canada notes the city's air quality remains 10+, while the U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI) reported Flin Flon's air quality at a 312 out of a scale of 1-500, the highest AQI reading for Canada in 2025 (it has since lowered to below 300). Evacuations are underway. Cots are going up. The wildfire situation is serious — but like always, we'll get through it together. 🤝🆘 Donate to the @redcrosscanada — Wab Kinew (@WabKinew) May 31, 2025 As of June 1, the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre reported 181 active fires in Canada, with 91 considered out of control. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for parts of Alberta and Saskatchewan due to poor visibility and air quality due to smoke. Manitoba's state of emergency required residents of several communities to evacuate due to air quality and lack of power. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. Wildfire smoke isn't just contained to affected areas. Environment Canada has issued a weather alert for parts of Ontario due to poor air quality that may cause people to experience symptoms like cough, headaches as well as nose and throat irritation. The Weather Channel in the U.S. reported wildfire smoke from Canada is visible as far as the Gulf Coast. Winds have caused smoke to impact air quality in states like Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan as well as North and South Dakota. As the wildfire season kicks off, ways to protect ourselves from smoke are top-of-mind for many. Yahoo Canada previously spoke to a top respirologist in Toronto, who weighed in on the impact of smoke on our lungs, and what to do to stay safe. Read on for everything you need to know. Dr. John Granton, a respirologist at the Toronto General Hospital (University Health Network), told Yahoo Canada wildfires cause air pollution that can have a far-reaching effect on human health. Small air pollutant particles in the smoke, called the PM2.5 particles, are "where a lot of the toxic stuff lives," Granton explained. "That's not filtered by your upper airway, that gets access to your lower airway and into your bloodstream even — and that's where the danger lies. "That can cause asthma attacks, can cause heart attacks, can contribute to hospitalizations and has long-term health outcomes." Even just the smell could cause problems to some, he said. "Being in smog all day long, the smell bothers people; it can cause irritation of the upper airway, some of the larger particles can cause irritation, and cause symptoms. People [who] have chest symptoms or asthma, it can make them feel worse." Granton said smoke isn't easy to escape, but there are some things people can do try and stay safe. According to Granton, "there's not a lot of data to support the health benefits of masking" when it comes to safety from wildfire smoke. But, he said there is research looking into the effectiveness of filters. "Cloth masks or scarves and things are not effective at all," the doctor claimed. But, surgical masks and N95 filter masks "tend to filter those smaller particles," he added, "apparently some of those masks are effective." Granton said "they're not going to filter the gases," though, and there are studies that question whether masks that aren't properly fitted would actually help in the real world. "Whether or not that has a direct health benefit is speculative right now," Granton explained. However, he said it "may be reasonable" for those who have underlying health conditions and those who have to be in the hotspots of the pollution to wear one. "If you have to be outdoors and doing things, then wearing that sort of mask to protect you would be sensible." Though filtration masks could aid in protecting your lungs from smoke, the number one recommendation from experts is to stay indoors. According to Health Canada, the following measures should also be taken: Reduce sources of indoor air pollution (smoking, vacuuming, burning candles, wood stoves) Prevent infiltration of outside air (seal windows, instal a high-quality air filter, set HVAC system to recirculation mode, limit use of exhaust fans when not cooking) Have a functioning CO alarm Use a portable air purifier and air conditioning Granton echoed this advice. "Most people recommend staying indoors as much as possible and not exercising or doing things outside," he reiterated.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Manitoba city records Canada's worst air quality of 2025: How wildfire smoke can impact health — and how to protect yourself, according to an expert
Wildfires in Western Canada have caused poor and at times dangerous air quality in certain parts of the country. Environment Canada has issued air quality warnings for parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba and is encouraging people, especially the elderly, pregnant people, children and people with chronic health conditions, to avoid spending time outdoors whenever possible. According to the Weather Network, Flin Flon, Man., a town located approximately 600 km north of Winnipeg, has registered the worst air quality rating in Canada this year. Canada uses the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to measure air quality on a scale from 1-10+. Environment Canada notes the city's air quality remains 10+, while the U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI) reported Flin Flon's air quality at a 312 out of a scale of 1-500, the highest AQI reading for Canada in 2025 (it has since lowered to below 300). As of June 1, the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre reported 181 active fires in Canada, with 91 considered out of control. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for parts of Alberta and Saskatchewan due to poor visibility and air quality due to smoke. Manitoba's state of emergency required residents of several communities to evacuate due to air quality and lack of power. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. Wildfire smoke isn't just contained to affected areas. Environment Canada has issued a weather alert for parts of Ontario due to poor air quality that may cause people to experience symptoms like cough, headaches as well as nose and throat irritation. The Weather Channel in the U.S. reported wildfire smoke from Canada is visible as far as the Gulf Coast. Winds have caused smoke to impact air quality in states like Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan as well as North and South Dakota. As the wildfire season kicks off, ways to protect ourselves from smoke are top-of-mind for many. Yahoo Canada previously spoke to a top respirologist in Toronto, who weighed in on the impact of smoke on our lungs, and what to do to stay safe. Read on for everything you need to know. Dr. John Granton, a respirologist at the Toronto General Hospital (University Health Network), told Yahoo Canada wildfires cause air pollution that can have a far-reaching effect on human health. Small air pollutant particles in the smoke, called the PM2.5 particles, are "where a lot of the toxic stuff lives," Granton explained. "That's not filtered by your upper airway, that gets access to your lower airway and into your bloodstream even — and that's where the danger lies. "That can cause asthma attacks, can cause heart attacks, can contribute to hospitalizations and has long-term health outcomes." Even just the smell could cause problems to some, he said. "Being in smog all day long, the smell bothers people; it can cause irritation of the upper airway, some of the larger particles can cause irritation, and cause symptoms. People [who] have chest symptoms or asthma, it can make them feel worse." Granton said smoke isn't easy to escape, but there are some things people can do try and stay safe. According to Granton, "there's not a lot of data to support the health benefits of masking" when it comes to safety from wildfire smoke. But, he said there is research looking into the effectiveness of filters. "Cloth masks or scarves and things are not effective at all," the doctor claimed. But, surgical masks and N95 filter masks "tend to filter those smaller particles," he added, "apparently some of those masks are effective." Granton said "they're not going to filter the gases," though, and there are studies that question whether masks that aren't properly fitted would actually help in the real world. "Whether or not that has a direct health benefit is speculative right now," Granton explained. However, he said it "may be reasonable" for those who have underlying health conditions and those who have to be in the hotspots of the pollution to wear one. "If you have to be outdoors and doing things, then wearing that sort of mask to protect you would be sensible." Though filtration masks could aid in protecting your lungs from smoke, the number one recommendation from experts is to stay indoors. According to Health Canada, the following measures should also be taken: Reduce sources of indoor air pollution (smoking, vacuuming, burning candles, wood stoves) Prevent infiltration of outside air (seal windows, instal a high-quality air filter, set HVAC system to recirculation mode, limit use of exhaust fans when not cooking) Have a functioning CO alarm Use a portable air purifier and air conditioning Granton echoed this advice. "Most people recommend staying indoors as much as possible and not exercising or doing things outside," he reiterated.
Yahoo
a day ago
- Climate
- Yahoo
Manitoba city records Canada's worst air quality of 2025: How wildfire smoke can impact health — and how to protect yourself, according to an expert
Wildfires in Western Canada have caused poor and at times dangerous air quality in certain parts of the country. Environment Canada has issued air quality warnings for parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba and encouraging people, especially the elderly, pregnant people, children and people with chronic health conditions, to avoid spending time outdoors whenever possible. According to the Weather Network, Flin Flon, Man., a town located approximately 600 km north of Winnipeg, has registered the worst air quality rating in Canada this year. Canada uses the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) to measure air quality on a scale from 1-10+. Environment Canada notes the city's air quality remains 10+, while the U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI) reported Flin Flon's air quality at a 312 out of a scale of 1-500, the highest AQI reading for Canada in 2025 (it has since lowered to below 300). Evacuations are underway. Cots are going up. The wildfire situation is serious — but like always, we'll get through it together. 🤝🆘 Donate to the @redcrosscanada — Wab Kinew (@WabKinew) May 31, 2025 As of June 1, the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre reported 181 active fires in Canada, with 91 considered out of control. Mandatory evacuation orders were issued for parts of Alberta and Saskatchewan due to poor visibility and air quality due to smoke. Manitoba's state of emergency required residents of several communities to evacuate due to air quality and lack of power. This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Contact a qualified medical professional before engaging in any physical activity, or making any changes to your diet, medication or lifestyle. Wildfire smoke isn't just contained to affected areas. Environment Canada has issued a weather alert for parts of Ontario due to poor air quality that may cause people to experience symptoms like cough, headaches as well as nose and throat irritation. The Weather Channel in the U.S. reported wildfire smoke from Canada is visible as far as the Gulf Coast. Winds have caused smoke to impact air quality in states like Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Michigan as well as North and South Dakota. As the wildfire season kicks off, ways to protect ourselves from smoke are top-of-mind for many. Yahoo Canada previously spoke to a top respirologist in Toronto, who weighed in on the impact of smoke on our lungs, and what to do to stay safe. Read on for everything you need to know. Dr. John Granton, a respirologist at the Toronto General Hospital (University Health Network), told Yahoo Canada wildfires cause air pollution that can have a far-reaching effect on human health. Small air pollutant particles in the smoke, called the PM2.5 particles, are "where a lot of the toxic stuff lives," Granton explained. "That's not filtered by your upper airway, that gets access to your lower airway and into your bloodstream even — and that's where the danger lies. "That can cause asthma attacks, can cause heart attacks, can contribute to hospitalizations and has long-term health outcomes." Even just the smell could cause problems to some, he said. "Being in smog all day long, the smell bothers people; it can cause irritation of the upper airway, some of the larger particles can cause irritation, and cause symptoms. People [who] have chest symptoms or asthma, it can make them feel worse." Granton said smoke isn't easy to escape, but there are some things people can do try and stay safe. According to Granton, "there's not a lot of data to support the health benefits of masking" when it comes to safety from wildfire smoke. But, he said there is research looking into the effectiveness of filters. "Cloth masks or scarves and things are not effective at all," the doctor claimed. But, surgical masks and N95 filter masks "tend to filter those smaller particles," he added, "apparently some of those masks are effective." Granton said "they're not going to filter the gases," though, and there are studies that question whether masks that aren't properly fitted would actually help in the real world. "Whether or not that has a direct health benefit is speculative right now," Granton explained. However, he said it "may be reasonable" for those who have underlying health conditions and those who have to be in the hotspots of the pollution to wear one. "If you have to be outdoors and doing things, then wearing that sort of mask to protect you would be sensible." Though filtration masks could aid in protecting your lungs from smoke, the number one recommendation from experts is to stay indoors. According to Health Canada, the following measures should also be taken: Reduce sources of indoor air pollution (smoking, vacuuming, burning candles, wood stoves) Prevent infiltration of outside air (seal windows, instal a high-quality air filter, set HVAC system to recirculation mode, limit use of exhaust fans when not cooking) Have a functioning CO alarm Use a portable air purifier and air conditioning Granton echoed this advice. "Most people recommend staying indoors as much as possible and not exercising or doing things outside," he reiterated.
Time Out
5 days ago
- Climate
- Time Out
Montreal weather: extreme summer 2025 forecast brings post-tropical cyclones and torrential downpours
It's official: while spring struggled to deliver consistently warm weather (May 2025 in Montreal could end up being the least sunny month in over half a century), a wet and humid summer is expected across the province. According to a report by the Weather Network, Montreal should expect warm, humid temperatures (especially at night) with a few periods of extreme heat, including the city's first heat wave before Canada Day. A central North American heat dome will contribute to stormy conditions in Quebec, triggering uncomfortable humidity overnight and violent storms with heavy winds, hail and tornados. Above normal precipitation is forecasted across southern and eastern Quebec, with frequent thunderstorms and risk for tropical remnants—the remnants of one or two tropical systems bringing significant rainfall to parts of the province. Higher humidity should keep evening temperatures warmer than usual and contribute to more frequent showers and thunderstorms, with a risk of strong to severe storms and torrential downpours. Keep an eye on the city's air quality due to hazy smokey skies from distant wildfires. And just when you think you can't handle the humidity, occasional cold fronts are expected to deliver periods of cool weather. What is the summer temperature in Montreal? Montreal averages 21°C in July, with the warmest temperatures typically hitting around 26°C in the afternoon. At night, it cools down to about 16°C, so a light sweater or cardigan is a good idea for evenings in the city.
CTV News
6 days ago
- Climate
- CTV News
Summer weather forecast: Too much of a good thing?
CTV News' Scott Hurst says there is significant concern in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba over growing wildfires amid rising temperatures and strong winds. Canadians longing for sunshine and warmth will likely be pleased by a summer forecast that has an abundance of both, says Weather Network meteorologist Doug Gillham, but he cautioned the season 'will highlight that you can get too much of a good thing.' Droughts, wildfires and powerful thunderstorms could be in the works across parts of Canada this summer, with warmer-than-normal temperatures possible for the vast majority of the country, according to The Weather Network's seasonal forecast for the months of June, July and August. 'I think most people are going to be happy when they see the forecast initially,' said Gillham, manager of The Weather Network's forecast centre, ahead of the release of Wednesday's forecast. 'But some disclaimers as well in that this summer can have some difficulties that come with extreme heat and not enough rain in parts of the country and stormy weather in other parts of the country.' A warm and humid summer is forecasted for much of Ontario and Quebec and into the Maritimes, Gillham said. Muggy conditions are expected to fuel some powerful thunderstorms and keep overnight temperatures warm across much of Central Canada, he said. Some heat waves are to be expected, possibly before July, but forecasters do not expect persistent heat in the region, except for areas west of Lake Superior. Conditions get warmer and drier than normal as the forecast moves to the Ontario-Manitoba boundary, where wildfires have already offered a preview of the risks at play this summer. Several communities have evacuated in recent days as fast-moving fires tear across the region. 'We need to be extra vigilant this summer and really hope that we don't get those fires started because conditions will be more conducive to fire spreading if they do start,' Gillham said. What meteorologists consider normal has also changed as the planet warms up, largely due to heat-trapping fossil fuel emissions. The forecasts of above- or below-normal temperatures and precipitation are based on average conditions over the past roughly 30 years. Yet, average Canadian summer temperatures have warmed by almost two degrees since the late 1940s, weather station records indicate, contributing to more intense wildfires, droughts and heat waves. 'It shifts the goalposts and the range of possibility,' Gillham said. 'It makes a cooler summer less likely. It makes a warmer summer more likely, but it's not a linear progression.' Drought could be a serious concern across the southern part of the Prairies where well above-normal temperatures are expected to combine with below-normal levels of precipitation, Gillham said. The upshot is that conditions are better leading into the summer than they have been in some recent tough drought years, such as 2012, he said. The forecast still calls for warmer-than-normal temperatures for northern parts of Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba, but with near-normal precipitation. The 'big picture' forecast has some similarities to the summer of 2021, Gillham said – a season marked in Western Canada by drought, wildfires, water shortages and a deadly heat wave over British Columbia. 'When you look at big picture (it) has some similarities. I hesitate to bring that up because nobody in B.C. wants to hear a reference to that year. That does not mean we're going to see identical weather,' said Gillham. 'We think the focus might be a bit further east,' centring on the southern Prairies, he said. The B.C. coast is expected to see near-normal temperatures and precipitation, with the exception of a wetter-than-normal forecast near the Yukon boundary. Into the central and southern interior, conditions are forecasted to be warmer and drier than normal, Gillham said. Heading north, the forecast is calling for above-normal temperatures and near-normal precipitation across much of the territories where Gillham said he'd be watching closely for wildfire activity. The exceptions are western Yukon, where the forecast is calling for near-normal temperatures and above-normal precipitation, and northern Baffin Island, which could see near-normal temperatures. It's shaping up to be a more typical, but still busy hurricane season, continuing the trend of above-average activity since 2016, Gillham said. That said, the pattern of the jet stream, the high-altitude band of wind that can steer hurricanes, appears to be more conducive to a storm track into either the northeastern United States or Atlantic Canada, he said. Parts of Ontario and Quebec could end up feeling the remnants of those storms, he said. 'So, you could have fewer storms, but all it takes is one storm to have a high impact,' said Gillham. Climate change has helped ramp up ocean temperatures in the Atlantic, which scientists say may be intensifying hurricanes. Last year brought 18 named storms, including the earliest Category 5 hurricane on record, Beryl. This year, Environment and Climate Change Canada says experts are predicting about 13 to 19 named storms, six to 10 hurricanes and three to five major hurricanes in the Atlantic Ocean basin. Hurricane season runs from June through the end of November. The Weather Network's summer forecast says above-normal temperatures and precipitation are expected across most of the Maritimes and western Newfoundland, with some occasional cold fronts. Near-normal precipitation is projected for Newfoundland and Labrador and eastern Nova Scotia, the forecast says. This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 28, 2025. Jordan Omstead, The Canadian Press
