An aerial view of Fort Frances 4 wildfire on May 16, 2025. Image: Carney McConnachie, AFFES Air Attack Officer, Ontario Forest Fires Facebook page
Environment Canada has issued an Air Quality Warning for northwestern Ontario.
Smoke is causing or is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility west of Ignace and Atikokan.
The warning was put in place around 12:45 p.m. on Saturday.
“Smoke from forest fires over northern Ontario has moved into the area, causing the air quality to deteriorate significantly,” said the forecaster in the statement. “The locally poor air quality will persist through today and possibly into Sunday for northern portions.”
During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status.
As smoke levels increase, health risks increase as well.
Environment Canada is advising that you limit time outdoors.
You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough.
The poor air quality is expected to persist through into Monday for some areas.
