The haze and slight smokey smell hanging over Winnipeg on Wednesday, August 8, 2018, is a result of forest fires in British Columbia and Alberta says Environment and Climate Change Canada.

The smoke is causing low air quality in and around the city and it is expected to hang around Winnipeg and parts of southern Manitoba tonight and Thursday before dissipating.

You may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.

Children, seniors, and those with heart or lung diseases, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

In areas affected by smoke from wildland fires, Manitobans are encouraged to:

• limit outdoor activity and/or strenuous physical activity; if breathing becomes difficult or uncomfortable, stop or reduce the activity
• reduce exposure to smoke by staying indoors or moving to areas with cleaner air, as conditions can vary dramatically by area
• turn off furnaces and air-conditioning units that may draw smoke indoors
• keep indoor air cleaner by avoiding smoking or burning other materials

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