Wildfire smoke prompts air quality advisory for much of northern Manitoba on Saturday

A large swath of northern and western Manitoba is under an air quality advisory on Saturday due to wildfire smoke, but it's expected to clear throughout the day, Environment Canada says.

The advisory, issued around 4:30 a.m., covers most of northern Manitoba, except for the northeastern corner. It also stretches into west-central Manitoba, and includes the areas around Flin Flon, The Pas and as far south as Duck Mountain.

The wildfire smoke is affecting air quality and visibility, but conditions can vary each hour, the advisory says.

Southerly winds were expected to clear the wildfire smoke out of southern Manitoba by Saturday morning, and gradually over the day in northern Manitoba, according to the weather agency.

Meanwhile, a heat warning continues for much of south-central and southeast Manitoba, including Winnipeg.

Everyone is at risk when heavy smoke is in the air, regardless of age or health, and the fine particles in wildfire smoke are the main health concern, Environment Canada says.

Those more likely to be affected by the smoke, and who should avoid strenuous outdoor activities, includes seniors, people with pre-existing illness or chronic health conditions, pregnant people, infants and young children, as well as anyone working outdoors.

Anyone who must spend time outdoors should wear a respirator-type mask,Environment Canada says. While masks can reduce exposure to smoke, there are still potential health risks, the agency says.

Environment Canada advises people to listen to their bodies during the air quality advisory and to reduce or stop outdoor activities if they experience symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, chest pains or severe coughs.

Manitobans in the affected areas are advised to keep their windows and doors closed as much as possible.

Manitobans are also urged to check in on others who live nearby, or who are in their care, who could be more likely to be impacted by the smoke.