Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for the Nordegg – Forestry Trunk Road Highway 734 area.

Environment Canada says, smoke from a wildfire west of Nordegg is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility at times. Officials add, high concentrations of fine particulate matter near the surface will continue impacting some areas.

Special air quality statement in effect for:

• Clearwater Co. near Chungo Creek

• Clearwater Co. near Nordegg and Big Horn Res.

• Clearwater Co. near Ya-Ha-Tinda Ranch

• Yellowhead Co. near Cadomin and Robb

Air quality and reduced visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary from hour to hour.

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors and especially those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.

If you or those in your care are exposed to wildfire smoke, consider taking extra precautions to reduce your exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gases which includes many chemicals that can harm your health. For more details, please consult www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/air-quality-health-index/wildfire-smoke.html.

For more information please visit Alberta Health Services at www.albertahealthservices.ca/news/air.aspx.

Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.

Issued by Environment Canada, Alberta Environment and Parks, Alberta Health and Alberta Health Services