Smoke from nearby wildfires is reducing local air quality. Location: Halifax Metro and Halifax County West. Short range wind forecast: light southwesterly winds this morning becoming 20 gusting to 40 km/h this afternoon. Remarks: Smoke from a local wildfire is reducing air quality in the area and locations downwind. Local smoke concentrations will vary with small changes to wind speed or direction. People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms. ### As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events. You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance. Visit http://www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
