Smoky haze blankets Ottawa as wildfires burn

A blanket of smoky haze has covered much of Ottawa as forest fires burn across parts of Quebec and Ontario.

The fires have filled the air with fine particulate matter that makes it unhealthy to breathe, while casting an eeriepall over the sky. Environment Canada says the poor air quality could last throughout most of the week.

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And the flames are hitting closer to home, as a wildfire remains out of control at Centennial Lake in Greater Madawaska, Ont., just 170 kilometres west of downtown Ottawa.

For those heeding public health advice to reduce exposure, here are photos and videos that show the conditions outside.

Flames visible from the water as forest fire burns west of Ottawa

1 year ago

Duration 0:47

Dozens of homes have been evacuated in the Township of Greater Madawaska after a forest fire broke out Sunday afternoon.

Watch a water bomber fly over the flames near Centennial Lake

1 year ago

Duration 0:24

Water bombers and helicopters are part of ongoing firefighting efforts to put out a forest fire in the Township of Greater Madawaska.

Watch as smoke rises over Centennial Lake in Greater Madawaska

1 year ago

Duration 0:25

A forest fire broke out in eastern Ontario's Township of Greater Madawaska Sunday afternoon according to Ontario's Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry. (Greg Carruthers)