Wildfire smoke from Nova Scotia is impacting air quality in parts of Newfoundland
A wildfire burning in Nova Scotia’s Annapolis Valley is producing smoke that has drifted into parts of western and central Newfoundland this afternoon. I have received several inquiries as to the source of this smoke and can confirm it is not from local wildfires. The NTV webcam overlooking the City of Corner Brook shows the haze over the city, which is the widlfire smoke.
Air Quality sensors throughout much of central and western Newfoundland confirm that this smoke is reaching the ground and is impacting air quality. Below are two sensors, the image on the left is Corner Brook and the one on the right is Grand Falls-Windsor. Both are showing a spike in poor air quality this afternoon.
These air quality sensors are showing PM 2.5 values of 30 to 50. PM2.5 refers to particulate matter that is 2.5 micrometres or smaller in diameter—tiny particles that are about 30 times smaller than the width of a human hair. Because they’re so small, they can stay suspended in the air for long periods of time and are easily inhaled deep into the lungs. When PM2.5 values are between 30 and 50, air quality is considered moderate to poor. That means the air is smoky enough that people with asthma, heart or lung conditions, children, and older adults may feel effects like coughing, shortness of breath, or irritation, while even healthy people may start to notice discomfort if they’re active outdoors.
Due to the poor Air Quality, the Environment and Climate Change Canada Weather Office in Gander has issued a Special Air Quality Statement for the following areas:
Corner Brook and vicinity
Deer Lake - Humber Valley
Gros Morne
Bay St. George
Buchans and the Inteiror
Grand Falls-Windsor and vicinity
Bonavist North
Gander and vicinity
Green Bay - White Bay
The smoke is being carried in from wildfires burning in Nova Scotia, and much of it is settling close to the ground. This is what’s causing the hazy skies, reduced visibility, and even the reddish look to the sun.
The plume of smoke is expected to shift north of Newfoundland later today or this evening, but conditions will continue to be monitored by ECCC NL.
Who’s most at risk?
People more likely to be affected include:
Adults 65 and older
Pregnant people
Infants and young children
Those with existing health conditions (heart or lung disease, asthma, etc.)
Outdoor workers
What to do:
Limit time outdoors, and avoid strenuous activities outside if possible.
Keep windows and doors closed when indoors.
If you have an air filter or portable air cleaner, use it to reduce smoke inside.
If you must be outdoors, a well-fitted N95 (or equivalent) mask can help reduce exposure.
Check in on family, friends, or neighbours who may be more vulnerable.
Possible symptoms:
Mild: irritation of eyes, nose, or throat; headaches; mild cough.
More serious: wheezing, chest pain, or severe cough. If you think you’re having a medical emergency, call for help right away.
More information and resources:
Current air quality values and health advice: airhealth.ca
Latest alerts and forecasts: Environment Canada
Stay tuned for updates!
