Canadian wildfires feed bad air quality for millions of Canadians, Americans

By Barry Ellsworth

TRENTON, Canada (AA) - Wildfires in Canada created “very unhealthy” air, making breathing difficult for millions of Canadians and Americans on Wednesday and that is expected to carry into at least Thursday, according to authorities in both countries

The US Environmental Protection Agency’s AirNow website listed air quality in the midwestern city of Detroit as “hazardous,” and warned residents to stay indoors, while in Cleveland, Chicago and Pittsburgh it was rated as “very unhealthy.”

In Canada, wildfire smoke extended across six of the country’s largest provinces and officials warned in some areas the unhealthy air could last for days.

Environment Canada issued air quality warnings for the Northwest Territories and huge areas of the heavily-populated provinces of Ontario and Quebec. The agency said residents should reduce activities.

Wildfire smoke contains small particles that affect breathing, but also causes eye, nose and throat irritation. It can affect the lungs and heart, particularly in youngsters and seniors and those with breathing problems such as asthma and heart disease.

"Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or you or someone in your care feel unwell," said Environment Canada. "Contact your health-care provider or local health authority if you develop severe symptoms or need advice."

The agency said people should keep windows shut and use air purifiers. Another precaution is to wear N-95 face masks when outdoors.​​​​​​​

The smoke has reached Western Europe, according to NASA.

The Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre website listed 487 wildfires burning across the country as of Wednesday and 253 are out of control, according to the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.

In all, 76,129 square kilometers (29,394 square miles) of land and forest have gone up in flames since Jan. 1.