Environment Canada meteorologist weighs in as region’s air quality reaches threshold
Posted Jun 28, 2023 03:10:11 PM.
Last Updated Jun 28, 2023 05:20:09 PM.
As wildfires continue burn across Ontario and Quebec, the air quality health index for Kitchener, Cambridge and Waterloo skyrocketed past 10 on Wednesday morning, reaching the very high risk threshold for air quality.
Steven Flisfeder, a meteorologist with Environment Canada, said this wildfire season has been described as unprecedented.
“The likelihood of forest fires becoming a bigger concern in the coming decades is something that is consistent with climate change,” Flisfeder stated.
Environment Canada is recommending that the general population reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors, and suggested that drinking lots of water can help your body cope with the smoke.
Flisfeder warned that the extent of the air quality deterioration is cause for concern, especially for those most vulnerable.
“As long as those fires are continuing, air quality’s going to be a concern for the general public,” Flisfeder explained. “But especially those who are most effected, so individuals with chronic illness, as well as the elderly, children, pregnant women.”
Flisfeder added that it remains to be seen how long wildfires will affect everyone as long as these conditions remain in place.
The air quality health index for the region is expected to be at high risk on Wednesday night.
