NORTH BATTLEFORD - Special air quality statements have been put into effect in several parts of Northwest Saskatchewan due to forest fire smoke.
The advisories from Environment Canada are in effect for The Battlefords - Unity - Maidstone - St. Walburg, Prince Albert - Shellbrook - Spiritwood - Duck Lake, Meadow Lake - Big River - Green Lake - Pierceland, Île à la Crosse - Buffalo Narrows - Beauval, and the City of Lloydminster Sask.
According to Environment Canada: “Smoke from wildfires has moved into the area, resulting in poor air quality.
Some areas in the vicinity of the fires could see smoke persist for the next few days. Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.”
Individuals may experience symptoms such increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches, and shortness of breath. Persons who suffer lung diseases such as asthma and COPD are particularly sensitive.
The wildfire smoke is coming to Saskatchewan from smoke blown in mainly from active fires in the Northwest Territories and also British Columbia and northern Alberta and Saskatchewan.
People are being urged to continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. Also, people can go to the website firesmoke.ca to find smoke forecasts for Saskatchewan.
