CORNWALL, Ontario – Environment Canada has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for the Cornwall area due to smoke from wildfires in northwestern Ontario. The statement was issued at 5:55 p.m. on Monday, July 19.
“Smoke from active forest fires in northwestern Ontario has moved over southern Ontario. Elevated particulate matter levels and hazy conditions have been reported at several stations. Reduced visibilities and deteriorating air quality are possible if the smoke descends to ground level,” the Environment Canada statement reads. “Conditions are expected to improve Tuesday with the passage of a cold front. If you or those in your care are exposed to wildfire smoke, consider taking extra precautions to reduce your exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gases which includes many chemicals that can be harmful to your health.”
More than 100 fires were listed as being active in northwestern Ontario on Monday in the Kenora and Red Lake areas.
In addition to the fires, which has left a haze over much of the province, temperatures were also high in the Cornwall area on Monday, above 30 degrees Celsius. Temperatures on Tuesday are expected to reach over 30 degrees Celsius again with the humidity and thunderstorms are possible.
