Wildfire smoke expected to move out of southern Sask. on Wednesday evening

Wildfire smoke drifting across southern Saskatchewan has prompted Environment Canada to issue air-quality alerts, but the weather service says the smoke is expected to move out of the province by Wednesday evening.

The air-quality warnings covered the southwestern corner of Saskatchewan on Wednesday morning, including Regina, Moose Jaw and Swift Current, reaching as far north as Craik and stretching east as far as Indian Head.

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“Smoke concentrations can vary wildly in time and place,” Environment Canada said in a statement. “As smoke levels increase, health risks increase.”

Air quality warnings covered the southwestern corner of Saskatchewan on Wednesday morning, though Environment Canada said the smoke levels vary significantly. (Environment Canada)

In areas where the smoke is thick, the weather service recommended limiting time outdoors and rescheduling outdoor activities.

Smoke can cause symptoms including eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough, but in more serious cases can lead to wheezing, chest pains or a severe cough.

“If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance,” Environment Canada advised.

“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.”

The weather service noted that the quality of indoor air can be improved by using a high-quality ventilation filter and using a portable air cleaner to filter our fine particles.

The latest updates on the air-quality alerts can be found on Environment Canada’s website.