The haze hanging over Edmonton this week isn’t just another summer fog. As I stepped onto my balcony yesterday morning, the familiar scent of campfire filled my lungs – except there was no cozy campsite in sight. Instead, our city sits under a blanket of wildfire smoke that has triggered air quality alerts across Alberta.
Environment Canada issued special air quality statements for both Edmonton and Calgary as smoke from wildfires burning in northern Alberta and British Columbia continues to drift southward. The particulate matter suspended in our air has pushed the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) into the high-risk category in some areas.
“We’re seeing particulate readings that are concerning, especially for vulnerable populations,” says Dr. Karen Sutherland, a respiratory specialist at the University of Alberta Hospital. “People with asthma, COPD, or heart conditions should be particularly cautious during these smoke events.“
The current situation isn’t isolated to Edmonton. From Saskatchewan to Quebec, Canadians are experiencing the effects of what’s shaping up to be another challenging wildfire season. The smoke creating our hazy skyline has traveled hundreds of kilometers, carried by wind patterns that meteorologists have been tracking closely.
Walking through the river valley this morning, I noticed significantly fewer joggers than usual. The few who braved the conditions wore masks – a sight that’s become all too familiar in recent years. Local running clubs have temporarily suspended outdoor activities, moving their workouts indoors until conditions improve.
“We made the decision to cancel our weekly Wednesday night run series,” explains Jennifer Lowell, president of the Edmonton Trail Runners. “The health of our members comes first, and with AQHI readings above 7, it’s just not worth the risk.”
For parents wondering about their children’s outdoor activities, Edmonton Public Schools has implemented their air quality protocols, keeping students indoors for recess and physical education classes when readings exceed certain thresholds.
Fire officials report that Alberta currently has about 75 active wildfires, with approximately 20 classified as out of control. The situation reflects a troubling trend we’ve witnessed in recent years – earlier, more intense fire seasons that extend well into fall.
“What we’re experiencing is consistent with climate change predictions for our region,” notes Dr. Michael Thompson, wildfire researcher at the University of Alberta. “Warmer temperatures, earlier spring melts, and changing precipitation patterns create conditions that favor more frequent and intense fires.”
For those feeling the effects of the smoke, Edmonton’s public libraries and recreation centers have opened their doors as clean air shelters. These climate-controlled spaces provide respite for residents without access to air conditioning or air purifiers.
Local businesses have noticed the impact as well. Patio seating at my favorite café on Whyte Avenue sat empty this afternoon, despite the comfortable 22°C temperature. Inside, however, every table was occupied.
“It’s definitely affecting our business model during what should be prime patio season,” says Marco Delaney, owner of Riverside Bistro. “But we understand – who wants to sip a latte while breathing in smoke?”
Health officials recommend several precautions during poor air quality conditions:
Stay indoors with windows and doors closed when possible
Use portable air cleaners with HEPA filters
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
Keep vehicle windows closed while driving, with air conditioning set to recirculate
Drink plenty of water to help your body clear inhaled particulates
“These events are becoming our new summer reality,” says Dr. Sutherland. “Having a personal air quality plan is as important as having a winter emergency kit in your car.”
Environment Canada’s forecast suggests we may see some relief by the weekend, as a weather system could bring much-needed precipitation and wind changes to clear the air. Until then, that distinctive campfire smell will continue to serve as a reminder of the ongoing wildfire challenges facing our province.
For real-time air quality updates, residents can download the AQHI Canada app or visit the Alberta Environment and Parks website. These resources provide hourly readings and forecasts to help plan daily activities during smoke events.
As Edmonton continues to adapt to these increasingly common air quality challenges, community support becomes even more vital. Checking on elderly neighbors, sharing air purifier resources, and staying informed about clean air shelters helps build the resilience our city needs to weather these smoky days together.
