WINNIPEG - Environment Canada says a large area west of Lake Winnipeg remains under an air quality alert due to smoke from wildfires across Manitoba.
The special air quality statements are in effect for:
- Arborg - Hecla - Fisher River - Gypsumville - Ashern
- Dauphin - Russell - Roblin - Winnipegosis
- Ste. Rose - McCreary - Alonsa - Gladstone
- Swan River - Duck Mountain - Porcupine Provincial Forest
The department warns that smoke from wildfires in the Lake St. Martin area and northeast of Dauphin is causing reduced visibility and poor air quality, which can result in sore eyes, tears, coughing, and a runny nose.
People at higher health risk include older adults, infants, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic conditions, including those experiencing a COVID-19 infection.
Environment Canada says people in impacted regions should limit outdoor activity, turn off any air conditioning systems that may draw smoke indoors, and keep indoor air clean by avoiding smoking or burning other material.
The province has information about the health impact of wildfire smoke on their website.
The weather forecast for much of Manitoba calls for little precipitation, and temperatures as high as 31 C this week.
Meanwhile, snow storm watches have been issued for Churchill, Brochet, and Tadoule Lake, with a strong spring storm system set to impact the northern prairies over the next couple of days.
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