Wildfire smoke, hot temperatures sweep across Saskatchewan
It's a hot, smoky day for most of the province, thanks to a low pressure system moving through on Monday.
Special air quality statements from Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) were issued for many areas across the province, including Kindersley, La Ronge, Meadow Lake, Regina, Prince Albert, Moose Jaw and Saskatoon.
As of 9 a.m. CST in Regina, air quality was reported to be high risk.
In that same time frame, Saskatoon's air quality was rated as moderate risk, but is expected to be high risk later in the day.
ECCC says the fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main risk to people's health, and it's more likely to affect elderly, infants, people who work outdoors and people with illness or chronic health conditions.
The agency is warning those who are more likely to be affected by the air quality to stay indoors or limit the amount of strenuous activities and time outdoors.
Saskatoon's temperature forecast July 8-12, 2024 (The Weather Network)
Keeping windows closed and using air purifiers are recommended for indoors, and N95 mask use for outdoors.
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Mild symptoms include irritation to the eyes, throat and nose, but more serious symptoms can include feeling chest pains or severe coughing. In an emergency, ECCC says to seek medical attention.
The smoke is expected to disperse later in the evening.
Wildfire smoke is affecting the air quality in Saskatoon and is expected to worsen throughout the day on Monday. Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued air quality and heat warnings for multiple areas across the province. (Liam O'Connor/CBC)
Heat warnings are also in place in many areas, including Lloydminster, Prince Albert, the Battlefords, Meadow Lake and Buffalo Narrows.
For the areas under heat warnings, temperatures are expected to reach highs around 30 C and lows around 16 C for the next three to five days.
ECCC says temperatures are increasing on Monday, but extreme heat is expected from Tuesday to Thursday, and then temperatures will fall going into the weekend.
Environment Canada is recommending people take precautions in the heat, watch for signs of illness and keep cool.
For advice on health risks or precautions because of the hot weather, people can call Healthline 811.
WATCH: Does breathing in wildfire smoke mean lung issues for life?
This article was originally published for CBC News.
