Air quality level improves to low risk in Calgary area despite wildfire smoke

The air quality level in Calgary and area has improved tomoderate risk, hours after the smoke from B.C. wildfires prompted a special alert that the air quality was "high risk" especially for children, seniors and those with cardiovascular or lung disease.

Earlier Monday, officials issued a special air quality alert for the city, saying the Air Quality Health Indexfor Calgary hit 9 (high risk) at 5 a.m. before dropping to 3 (low risk) by 11a.m.

When the Air Quality Health Index hit 9, Environment Canada warnedthat people might 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 agency said on its alerts page.

Animal welfare groups also advise that pet owners limit the amount of time their pets spend outside until the air quality improves.

The smoke was reducing visibility on the roads for morning commuters.

Dr. Jason Cabaj with Alberta Health Services says the organization recommends that drivers recirculate their air and close their windows while on the roads.

Cabaj says that while air quality is expected to improve as the day progesses, Calgarians should be prepared for more smoky air in the days to come.

"The wildfire activity in B.C. hasn't shown any sign of resolving at this point, so we're certainly not expecting this to go away any time soon. It may continue for the rest of the summer," he said.

Special air quality statements are also in effect across a big swath of central and southeastern Alberta from Athabasca, north of Edmonton, down to Milk River, south of Lethbridge.

The smoke is expected to clear out from most of the affected areas later Monday, Environment Canada says.

By the evening, Calgary'sAQHIis forecast to drop back to 2 (low risk).

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