Air Quality Warning remains in effect as wildfire smoke hangs over Ottawa

A smoky haze lingering over Ottawa and Gatineau on Saturday evening. Environment Canada has issued an air quality warning, saying smoke from forest fires in Quebec will linger over the region. (Westin Camera)

Smoke from wildfires burning in northern Quebec continues to blanket Ottawa today, creating hazy conditions.

A yellow warning – air quality remains in effect for the Ottawa-Gatineau area today, warning smoke will cause poor air quality and reduced visibility today.

“Smoke from forest fires in Quebec will continue to affect the regions through today,” Environment Canada said.

“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

At 6 a.m., the Air Quality Health Index rated Ottawa’s air quality as 5-moderate risk.

The Air Quality Health Index shows the air quality improving to 3-low risk on Sunday evening and on Monday.

The Air Quality Health Index says if the rating is between 4-6, members of the at risk population should “consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if you are experiencing symptoms.”

The yellow warning - air quality is in effect for Ottawa, Renfrew, Calabogie, Arnprior, Smiths Falls, Perth and parts of Lanark County.

Quebec’s forest fire fighting agency (SOPFEU) is monitoring 182 active fires in northern Quebec and six in the southern “intensive protection zone.”

An open fire ban is in effect for much of Quebec.

With files from CTV News Montreal’s Daniel Rowe

• Sign up now for daily CTV News Ottawa newsletters
• The information you need to know, sent directly to you: Download the CTV News App