Wildfire smoke forecast to hamper Quinte into the weekend and beyond

Friday’s air-quality forecast of four later in the day was expected to climb to as high as seven on Saturday.

Article content Air quality improved early Friday but was forecast to worsen into the weekend for Quinte and beyond, according to Environment Canada. The national weather forecaster issued a yellow alert advising wildfires in northwestern Ontario would return late Friday “resulting in very poor air quality and reduced visibility. Poor air quality may persist into the weekend.”

Recommended Videos The advisory follows a difficult week with heavy smoke forcing residents to stay indoors as air quality readings exceeded 10+ as issued by Ontario’s Quality Heath Index. Friday’s air-quality forecast of four later in the day was expected to climb to as high as seven on Saturday.

“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events,” said Environment Canada in its advisory.

“You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.”

Environment Canada said different people with experience impacts from particles in the smoke from fires burning in Northwestern Ontario. “People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.” Environment Canada also advised: “When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.

When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool.”