Hamilton, Halton, Niagara under special air quality statement due to wildfire smoke

A special air quality statement has been issued for Hamilton and surrounding regions Wednesday morning as smoke from forest fires over northeastern Ontario and Quebec drifts into the region.

Environment Canada issued similar statements for Halton and Niagara regions, as well as Haldimand-Norfolk and Brant counties.

The federal weather agency says the smoke can vary considerably from hour to hour and residents should take care to limit their exposure.

The Air Quality Health Index for Hamilton is forecast to reach a high risk level of nine Wednesday afternoon and into the evening.

READ MORE: How to protect yourself from poor air quality due to Ontario wildfires

With nearly 500 active fires burning across the country, Toronto was at one point listed as fourth on a list of the worst air quality in the world’s big cities, behind Dubai, Detroit and Chicago.

Conditions are not expected to improve until Thursday evening.

Residents are encouraged to take a break from the smoke by finding a place with clean, cool air such as a community centre, shopping mall or library.

READ MORE: Air quality statements in effect for smoky, northeastern parts of Ontario

Environment Canada has shared a number of recommendations to protect your health and reduce exposure to wildfire smoke.

Those at a higher risk of experiencing adverse health effects due to wildfire smoke include people with lung diseases or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people working outdoors.

For residents who must spend time outside, the federal agency suggests wearing a well-fitted respirator mask such as a NIOSH certified N95 or equivalent respirator.

The City of Hamilton previously faced air quality warnings at the beginning of June.

READ MORE: Hamilton under special air quality statement due to wildfire smoke