Special air quality statement issued for Grande Prairie area
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Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for the Grande Prairie-Beaverlodge-Valleyview forecast area, as the stagnant hot weather trapped under a ridge of high pressure has caused pollutants at the surface to build up in recent days.
The weather office says air quality is expected to be at its worst in the evenings while the sun and heat continue to persist. They add with this air quality, people may experience symptoms like 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.
“People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels,” warns Environment Canada. “Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.”
