As summer continues in Collingwood, there are once again air quality warnings caused by the smoke from wildfires burning hundreds of kilometres away.
Wednesday, June 28's weather reports show a sunny sky over Collingwood, but residents know there's no blue sky today. Instead, Collingwood and neighbouring municipalities have a grey sky with a hint of orange and the smell of burning lingers in the air. It's similar to the air over Collingwood earlier this month when more air quality alerts went out to let residents know they should be cautious outdoors.
As of 6 a.m., Wednesday, the Air Quality Health Index in the Barrie area (including Collingwood) is four, which is considered 'moderate risk,' but is expected to jump to nine tonight which is deemed 'high risk.' So far, Environment Canada predicts a drop back down to moderate risk on Thursday.
In the moderate risk range, Environment Canada suggests reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if you are at risk of respiratory symptoms. The general population should not have to modify outdoor activities unless they notice symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
According to data compiled by the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre, this is the largest forest fire season on record for the country. Wildfire fighters have come from France, the US, Australia, New Zealand, Costa Rica, Chile, South Africa, Spain, and Portugal to help Canadian teams battle the fires in Alberta and Quebec.
Currently in the northeastern region of Ontario there are 21 active wildland fires, eight are considered out of control.
CBC reported the smoke and air quality warnings will likely become more sparse further into summer because northerly winds become less common in the summer moths, according to warning preparedness meteorologist for Environment Canada, Peter Kimbell.
You can watch the current and forecast air quality index from Environment Canada here.
