Wildfire smoke prompting air quality warning for Kingston and area

Photo: Alyssa Brush

Officials are urging residents to limit time outdoors; people may experience eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough.

Environment Canada has issued a yellow air quality warning for Kingston and the surrounding area as wildfire smoke moves into southern Ontario.

The warning, issued Tuesday evening, says smoke from forest fires in northwestern Ontario is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility beginning overnight and lasting through Wednesday.

Officials are urging residents to limit time outdoors and consider postponing outdoor sports, activities and events while smoke levels remain elevated.

People may experience eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious symptoms, including wheezing, chest pain or a severe cough, require medical attention.

Older adults, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with chronic health conditions and those who work outdoors are considered most at risk from wildfire smoke.

Residents are encouraged to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible, use high-quality air filters or portable air cleaners indoors, and wear a well-fitting N95 respirator if they must spend extended time outside.

Story by Emily Chatwood

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