Air quality in Airdrie and Cochrane is expected to be poor today and tomorrow (July 19 and 20) as wind carries smoke from the B.C. wildfires into our area.

A special air quality statement has been issued for areas of Rocky View and Mountain View Counties.

While Airdrie won't be heavily affected by smoke, air quality will still be poor. Edmonton, Red Deer and Hinton are expected to see the thickest smoke from the fires.

In Airdrie, the Air Quality Health Index is forecasted at a 6 for today and and 8 for tomorrow. The Air Quality Health Index uses a scale from 1 to 10, with 1 representing a low risk and 10 representing a high risk.

Thunderstorms tomorrow evening are expected to flush out some of the smoke from the air.

Children, seniors and individuals with cardiovascular or lung diseases like asthma are especially susceptible to poor air quality. Anyone may see symptoms like coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.

The best thing to do is stay indoors with windows closed until air quality improves. Using an air conditioner with a filter is also a good idea. You might also want to consider going to a public place that is air-conditioned, like a mall or library.

 

READ MORE:

Smoky Air Is Here For A While

 

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