Air quality warnings were issued as wildfire smoke spread from western to eastern Canada

Environment Canada has issued air quality warnings for parts of British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan and the Northwest Territories following wildfires in western Canada and as smoke may drift eastward. In a special statement on air quality, he said: "Smoke from fires causes very poor air quality and reduced visibility." Even at low concentrations, this smoke can endanger people's health." Air quality warnings currently cover northeastern British Columbia around the city of Fort Nelson. In Alberta, the northern half of the province is also under smoke warnings, including communities such as Fort McMurray, High Prairie, High Level, Grand Prairie and Fort Chipewyan.

Smoky conditions will continue into Wednesday as winds increase to 50 to 60 km/h in northeastern British Columbia and northwestern Alberta, sending smoke eastward, forecasters said. The fire could spread southward in Manitoba and Saskatchewan to cities like Winnipeg and Saskatoon. Fire haze could move eastward into Ontario and Quebec, affecting areas from Georgian Bay to Quebec City. There are currently 138 active fires across Canada, including 40 that are considered "out of control," according to reports. Alberta is the most active region with 46 fires, followed by British Columbia with 45 fires. There are also fires in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Northwest Territories, New Brunswick, Ontario and Quebec.

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