Smoky skies linger over Grande Prairie Monday evening (Photo: Shaun Penner / EverythingGP staff)

By Shaun Penner

Reduced air quality

Wildfire smoke leads to special air quality statement for Grande Prairie area

Jul 19, 2021 | 9:57 PM

UPDATE: Environment Canada says, as of 4:28 a.m. Wednesday morning, the special air quality statement is no longer in effect.

A special air quality statement has been issued for the Grande Prairie and Peace River forecast areas due to wildfire smoke lingering in the region.

Environment Canada says smoke is causing high values on the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), while at times is reducing visibility throughout much of Alberta, which is expected to last through until at least mid-week.

As of 9 p.m. Monday, the AQHI was a 4 or moderate in Grande Prairie, according to the Peace Airshed Zone Association.

“Air quality can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably hour by hour,” says Environment Canada.

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The air quality means people may experience increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.

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

“People with lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution,” says the weather office.

“They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits.”

An updated forecast of smoke levels in the Grande Prairie area can be found at firesmoke.ca.