Wildfire smoke prompts air quality statement for Halifax area

CITYnews halifax \ By Mark Hodgins

Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for the Halifax area as a wildfire continues to burn just outside of the metro area.

The national forecaster says smoke downwind from the fire can have an impact on visibility and air quality.

“We do have some stronger winds later Monday and that’s not going to help when it comes to carrying that smoke around to different communities,” said CityNews weather specialist Denise Andreacchi. “One thing to note this week, it is very dry and sunny, we don’t have any measurable rain in the forecast so likely we’ll be stuck with these special air quality statements for a few days at least.”

Environment Canada says that smoke can be dangerous, even in small amounts, and is particularly harmful for people with lung or heart disease, older adults, young children, pregnant people and people working outside.

The national forecaster says to drink lots of water, and to take a break from the smoke at a location in your community where you can find clean, cool air.