Ontario's wildfire smoke, air quality finally looking to improve for many
Air quality will finally begin to improve across much of Ontario on Sunday thanks to a round of helpful rains in the north.
The air quality health index (AQHI) remained high to very high across much of Ontario on Friday and Saturday, with health officials advising residents to minimize time outdoors. Luckily, the forecast is finally looking in favour of cleaner air.
Wildfire activity in northwestern Ontario has led to evacuation orders and has sent thick smoke sweeping across the region and downwind into parts of the province.
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Conditions seek to improve more on Sunday
Air quality worsened across much of eastern Ontario on Saturday while folks across southern regions of the province saw a slight improvement thanks to Saturday's stormy weather.
Much of the lingering smoke will be ushered out of the province by early Sunday, although folks in the Windsor-London area and around Lake Erie may continue to see some haze.
By Monday, the air will look and smell even cleaner for most of southern and eastern Ontario, with a possible exception around the Niagara Region.
Unfortunately, not everyone in Ontario will be able to breathe in some fresh air, as extremely poor air quality and dense smoke is forecast to linger around the Thunder Bay area due to the nearby wildfires. Moderate smoke may also stick around northeastern Ontario through Monday.
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Is the rain actually helping?
Yes! Rain and thunderstorms over the last 12–18 hours have offered modest relief to areas of northwestern Ontario.
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However, lightning poses the risk of further fire starts, while prevailing poor weather conditions continue to sustain wildfire activity and dense smoke production. Friday's storms sparked seven new fires in the region, according to officials.
Health and visibility impacts:
Smoke at low atmospheric levels raises health risks
Increased discomfort for individuals with respiratory conditions
Hazy skies and the smell of campfire
Red sunrises and sunsets
DON'T MISS: The Weather Network's hub for all wildfire information in Canada
Limiting outdoor activity is advised in affected areas.