Air quality statement issued for parts of northern Ont.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued an air quality statement for Greater Sudbury and area, Elliot Lake and Ranger Lake due to smoke from wildfires in Ontario and Quebec.

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued an air quality statement for Greater Sudbury and area, Elliot Lake and Ranger Lake due to smoke from wildfires in Ontario and Quebec.

“High levels of air pollution have developed due to smoke from forest fires,” said the ECCC in their updated statement Sunday morning.

“Smoke plumes from forest fires in Quebec and northeastern Ontario will continue to affect the area, resulting in deteriorated air quality.”

Visibility and air quality due to smoke plumes can change dramatically in only a short time or when travelling a short distance – officials recommend caution.

As a result of the statement, Public Health Sudbury and Districts (PHSD) is reminding area residents of the potential health effects of wildfire smoke and how to stay protected.

“Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of gases and fine particles from burning trees and plant materials,” said PHSD in a news release.

“The smoke releases many contaminants into the air, such as fine particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, carbon monoxide, and volatile organic compounds.”