Air quality in Toronto among worst in the world Monday, as Environment Canada issues heat warning

By Rochelle Raveendran, CBC News, RCI

The GTA is under an air quality warning as extreme heat persists, Environment Canada says. CBC’s Clara Pasieka has more on the reaction from Torontonians and a meteorologist. Photo: CBC / Evan Mitsui

Parts of the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) are under an air quality warning on Monday alongside an ongoing heat warning in the region, Environment Canada says.

Smoke from forest fires over northern Ontario is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility, the federal weather agency says.

Poor air quality may continue throughout the day and possibly into Tuesday for some areas, the warning reads.

During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status, Environment Canada said.

Those at higher risk of being impacted by wildfire smoke include people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, and those with an existing illness or chronic health condition, the weather agency said.

Wildfire smoke: Micrograms per cubic meter air or μg/m3 | See interactive map here (new window)

People are advised to limit time outdoors and protect indoor air from wildfire smoke, such as by keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible.

Toronto was the second-most polluted major city in the world as of 8 a.m. on Monday, according to a global ranking by IQAir, a Swiss air quality technology company.

The area burned by wildfires so far this season is the second-largest on record (new window) in Canada, government data shows. Wildfires have consumed 3.7 million hectares this year, which is six times the area of Prince Edward Island.

Environment Canada warned last year (new window) that Canadians should be prepared for more extreme weather events, such as wildfires and hurricanes, triggered by human-caused climate change.

WATCH | Cardiologist explains impact of extreme heat and poor air quality on health:

Monday’s air quality warning comes as extreme heat and humidity is expected to continue in the region on Monday.

Daytime highs could be between 29 to 32 C, with the humidex making it feel like it’s 35 to 40 C, the federal weather agency said in a warning Monday morning.

Overnight lows are expected to provide little relief, ranging from 19 to 23 degrees.

The heat warning is expected to end on Thursday night, Environment Canada says.

People are advised to stay hydrated and check in on those who are at greater risk of heat illness, including the elderly and those living alone.

Parts of the GTA were under a severe thunderstorm watch on Sunday but that has since been lifted.

Watch for symptoms of heat stroke

Environment Canada is advising people to limit exposure to sun and heat by planning activities during the coolest parts of the day, as well as wearing a wide-brimmed hat and lightweight, light-coloured, loose fitting clothing.

People are advised to watch for symptoms of heat stroke, which is a medical emergency, in themselves and others. Symptoms can include red and hot skin, dizziness, nausea, confusion and change in consciousness.

Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) | See interactive chart here (new window)

While you wait for medical attention, try to cool the person by moving them to a cool place, removing extra clothing, applying cold water or ice packs around the body, Environment Canada said in Monday’s warning.

The weather agency also advised people to drink water often, even before feeling thirsty, and close blinds and open windows if the outside is cooler than inside.

People are advised to check in regularly on those at greater risk of heat illness, including the elderly and those living alone.

Signs of heat exhaustion may include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine and intense fatigue. If you experience these symptoms, Environment Canada advises stopping your activity and drinking water.

People with pre-existing conditions at risk: doctor

Poor air quality and extreme heat can put strain on the lungs and the heart, respectively, said cardiologist Dr. Christopher Labos.

If you are young and healthy, you can probably ride this out without getting seriously sick, he said in an interview with CBC Radio’s Metro Morning on Monday.

But you can easily see that the minute you start having a few additional health problems, that’s going to start to cause a cumulative effect as you start piling on all these potential stressors.

He said people who must go outdoors can consider wearing a mask.

Pet owners should also be cautious about the effect of the weather on their dogs, Lobos said.

Dogs are going to be subject to the same problems we have, he said. They get hot, they can overheat, they can get heatstroke and unlike us, they can’t ask for water.

Labos advised keeping pets indoors as well and giving them plenty of water.

With files from Metro Morning and Britnei Bilhete

This article is republished from RCI.