Smoke from wildfires burning in the northern part of the province is deteriorating air quality for a second day in part of midwestern Ontario.
Environment Canada has reissued a special air quality statement for southern Huron County. It warned of elevated pollution levels throughout the day on Tuesday.
"When air pollution levels are high, everyone should limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities, and events," the national weather agency said.
Exposure to the smoky air can most commonly cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and a mild cough. More serious, but less common symptoms from the polluted air include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. People most likely to be affected by the deteriorated air quality are the elderly, pregnant women, small children, people with chronic health issues, and outdoor workers.
In addition to limiting time spend outside, it is recommended people keep their windows and doors closed as much as possible until the smoke clears from the region.
As of late Tuesday morning, Environment Canada’s air quality health index for the region was listed at a moderate risk with the possibility it could change to a high risk later in the day.
