Ontario forest fire smoke puts parts of Manitoba under air quality advisory

Parts of the Interlake andeastern and southern Manitoba are under an air quality advisory Monday due to smoke from northwestern Ontario forest fires wafting west into the province.

Fires east of Berens River and west of Red Lake, Ont., are producing thick smoke.

Northeast winds are expected to push the smoke southwest into Manitoba Monday night, which could reduce visibilityas well as createpoor air quality, Environment Canada says.

Environment Canada issued special air quality statements for the following regions and the surrounding areas:

• Arborg, Hecla, Fisher River, Gypsumville andAshern.
• Berens River, Little Grand Rapids, Bloodvein andAtikaki.
• Bissett, Victoria Beach, Nopiming Provincial Park andPine Falls.
• Winnipeg.
• Dugald, Beausejour andGrand Beach.
• Morden, Winkler, Altona andMorris.
• Poplar River.
• Portage la Prairie, Headingley, Brunkild andCarman.
• Selkirk, Gimli, Stonewall andWoodlands.
• Steinbach, St. Adolphe, Emerson, Vita, Richer, the Whiteshell, Lac du Bonnet andPinawa.

The smoky air is expected to hang around through Tuesday, with southerly winds forecast to blow some of the smoke north on Wednesday.

Environment Canada warns anyone in and around these areas to be mindful of potential health risks associated with the smoke.

Manitobans are encouraged to limit outdoor activity and to stop activity altogether if breathing becomes laboured.

Young children, elderly people, pregnant people and thosewith heart orlung conditions, including asthma, are at higher risk and should avoid exposure to smoke as much as possible, Environment Canada says.

Those experiencing related health issues can call Health Links (204-788-8200 or toll-free at 1-888-315-9257) or check the province's website for more information on the risks associated with smoke.