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Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for parts of the Parkland today, including:
  • Gilbert Plains Mun. incl. Ashville
  • Grandview Mun. incl. Valley River Res.
  • Mossey River Mun. incl. Winnipegosis and Fork River
  • Mun. of Ethelbert incl. Garland
  • Mun. of Roblin, incl. Makaroff Shortdale and Bield
  • Mun. of Russell-Binscarth incl. Gambler Res.
  • R.M. of Dauphin incl. Sifton and Valley River
  • R.M. of Lakeshore incl. Ochre River and Makinak
  • R.M. of Lakeshore incl. Rorketon and Toutes Aides
  • R.M. of Riding Mountain West incl. Asessippi Prov. Park

According to Environment Canada, the smoke we are experiencing is coming from forest fires that have spread across central and northern parts of the Prairies, sending smoke throughout Manitoba.

Over the next couple of days, light winds will keep this smoke trapped near the surface and limit the dispersion of this smoke.

With these smoky conditions, individuals living in the areas listed above are advised to be aware of potential health concerns associated with current air conditions; even healthy individuals may experience irritated eyes, tears, coughing, and a runny nose in these current conditions.

In times of special air quality statements, Manitobans are encouraged to:

  • Limit outdoor activity and strenuous physical activity; if breathing becomes difficult or uncomfortable, stop or reduce the activity
  • Reduce exposure to smoke by staying indoors or moving to areas with cleaner air, as conditions can vary dramatically by area
  • Turn off furnaces and air-conditioning units that may draw smoke indoors
  • Keep indoor air cleaner by avoiding smoking or burning other materials

People at higher risk are young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with heart or lung conditions, particularly asthma. These individuals should avoid as much exposure to smoke as possible.