The True Post(Web News)Thick smoke from forest fires in Manitoba has severely affected air quality in various areas of the province, prompting Environment Canada to issue an air pollution warning.
According to the alert, Winnipeg, Thompson, Brandon, and other northern and western towns are among the areas where air quality has deteriorated to dangerous levels. The amount of fine particles (PM2.5) in the air has exceeded safe limits, which are considered dangerous to health.
Environmental experts have warned that smoke and particles in the air can be especially dangerous for people with respiratory diseases, children, the elderly, pregnant women, and heart patients.
Environment Canada has advised the public to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary outings, and keep windows closed. It also recommends wearing an N95 type mask if going outside is unavoidable.
The smoke is coming from wildfires in neighboring provinces and northern Manitoba, which are being fanned by recent dry weather, high temperatures and strong winds. Firefighting teams are on the move, but it has not yet been possible to achieve full control.
Residents in Winnipeg and other cities have complained of burning eyes, difficulty breathing, and general fatigue. Several schools have temporarily suspended outdoor activities for children, and hospitals have seen an increase in the number of patients with respiratory problems.
