Special air quality statement issued for Saskatoon and area due to smoke from wildfire

Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for several areas from Saskatoon up to the Spiritwood region.

The statement says elevated pollution levels are expected or occurring from the wildfire east of Prince Albert.

Air quality in locations downwind of the fire will at times be poor.

People may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.

Children, seniors and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

The areas included in the statement are:

• The City of Saskatoon;
• Martensville, Warman, Rosthern and Delisle;
• Wakaw, Melfort, Tisdale, Nipawin and Carrot Lake; and,
• Prince Albert, Shellbrook, Spiritwood and Duck Lake.

Environment Canada says northeasterly winds Wednesday will gradually shift south on Thursday morning, moving the smoke out of the area and possibly into north-central Saskatchewan.