Environment Canada has issued both an air quality warning and a heat warning for Barrhead, Westlock and Athabasca areas for July 20.
“Wildfire smoke is causing or expected to cause very poor air quality and reduced visibility,” states the Environment Canada Warning on the website.
“The combination of heat and poor air quality in smoke will increase the risk to your health.”
The prolonged heat event continues through to Wednesday, July 24.
There is a 30 percent chance of showers during the day and evening on Saturday.
Hot and sunny forecasts are shown from Sunday to Wednesday with temperatures in the 30s until Wednesday where a drop to 27 C is shown.
The Environment Canada website shows a forecaster note, “Temperature is measured in the shade so when it’s hot it’s even warner than you think. Keep yourself and others, including pets, out of the full sun, especially on hot days.”
Air quality in Swan Hills is unhealthy for sensitive groups like children, seniors and people with respiratory challenges.
Athabasca showing on the IQ air map an unhealthy air quality.
Barrhead and Westlock don’t have measures shown on the IQ Air map but the colours indicate similar air qualities to Swan Hills and Athabasca.
Environment Canada suggests limiting your time outdoors.
Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible and prioritize keeping cool.
If you spent time outdoors, consider wearing a mask to reduce your exposure to the poor air quality according to Environment Canada.
