UPDATE: The special air quality statement for the Grande Prairie region has been lifted.
Another special air quality statement has been issued for the Grande Prairie region, a week after a 19-day long statement was lifted.
Environment Canada says the warning was prompted as wildfire smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility at times throughout the Peace Country. While the amount of wildfire smoke in the air can heavily fluctuate over short distances, residents are being warned the smoke could lead to increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.
Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk. According to Environment Canada, the air quality in Grande Prairie is expected to fluctuate between 7, and a moderate to high risk, to as low as 2 on the scale, which represents low risk.