\n\tThick smoke from wildfires descended on the city Saturday,\u00a0affecting air quality and visibility in the city.<\/p>\n
\n\tThe air quality index rose from a low-risk 3 at 7 a.m. to a 10+ (or very high risk) by 11 a.m.<\/p>\n
\n\tA special air advisory has been issued for Edmonton, recommending that “strenuous” outdoor activities be cancelled or rescheduled.<\/p>\n
\n\tOn Thursday, the City of Edmonton activated its poor air quality response. It’s expected to remain in effect until Sunday.<\/p>\n
\n\tWhile it’s active, city facilities, like pools and libraries, will be open to anyone needing a break from the smoke. Social agencies will also be handing out N95 masks to people in need of protection.<\/p>\n
\n\tEnvironment Canada says wildfire smoke is harmful to health even at low concentrations.<\/p>\n
\n\tCertain groups, including people with heart or lung disease, pregnant people, elderly people and children are all at increased risk of health effects caused by the smoke.<\/p>\n
\n\tThe air quality is expected to remain poor throughout Saturday, with a small drop to a high-risk 8 forecast for later in the evening.<\/p>\n
\n\tAs of 1 p.m, Environment Canada was predicting the smoke to begin clearing up on Sunday with the index dropping to a moderate-risk 4.\u00a0<\/p>\n