Smoke from wildfires continues to cause air quality issues in the region.
Special air quality statements remain in effect for much of Northern Ontario - including for the Wawa, White River, and Chapleau areas - warning that "very high levels of air pollution have developed" from smoke from fires in Quebec and Northern Ontario, though air quality and visibility can fluctuate considerably over short distances and hour-to-hour.
It emphasizes - while smoke can be harmful to everyone's health, even at low concentrations - people with lung or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and those who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects, recommending everyone take action to reduce exposure to smoke, taking breaks where you can find clean, cool air, and drinking lots of water to help your body cope - if breathing becomes uncomfortable, stop or reduce activity level, contacting your health care provider if you develop severe symptoms.