Smoke disrupts events, poses health risk

The Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) for Brandon reached 10+, indicating a “very high risk” level on Saturday morning, as thick smoke was expected to linger in the air until Saturday night.

Environment Canada’s forecast anticipated that the hazardous conditions would persist through Saturday night, with only a slight improvement expected, dropping to a “moderate risk” (AQHI 6) by Sunday morning and a “high risk” (AQHI 7) by Sunday night.

The elevated readings are the result of thick wildfire smoke that drifted into Brandon Friday evening and remained heavy over the city Saturday morning. The smoke originates from wildfires burning in northern Manitoba and northern Saskatchewan and has led Environment Canada to issue a special air quality statement for the city.

Environment Canada meteorologist Justin Shaer described the situation as severe and ongoing. He explained the smoke is being funnelled into the Westman region, including Brandon and surrounding communities, by northwest winds, drawing smoke from forest fires in central and northern Saskatchewan, as well as northern and eastern Manitoba.

“Currently, we’re dealing with a bit of a northwest flow over southern Manitoba, and that’s just bringing all that smoke down into the area,” he said. “We’re going to get more of a westerly flow, and that should bring an improvement to the air quality on Sunday.” However, some lingering smoke is still likely into “Monday evening, with another possible return of smoke as northwest winds are expected to redevelop.”

The statement, issued on Saturday morning, warns residents of poor air quality and reduced visibility due to smoke from wildfires burning in northern Manitoba and northern Saskatchewan.

Residents across Brandon began noticing the dense haze Friday night, with many reporting the smell of smoke and reduced visibility. As of Saturday morning, the smoke remained, and air quality continued to fluctuate.

Environment Canada stated the situation is dynamic.

“Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour,” it read. “As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.”

In response to the hazardous conditions, some events have been disrupted.

The Manitoba Cycling Championships, originally scheduled to take place Saturday on the north side of Riding Mountain, were postponed to Sunday. Meanwhile, the Westman Border Twilight Fastball League, which was set to make its season-opening debut in Brandon on Saturday, with all three 50-plus teams participating, was cancelled.

The smoke can trigger a range of symptoms, including irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, or mild coughing. More serious symptoms may include wheezing, chest pain, or a severe cough, particularly among vulnerable populations. This includes people aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people with chronic health conditions, and those who work outdoors.

Environment Canada advised residents to keep windows and doors closed as much as possible to protect indoor air. Using high-quality air filters or certified portable air cleaners can further reduce exposure to harmful particles.

“If you must spend time outdoors,” it added. “A well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator-type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95) can reduce your exposure to fine particles.”

The agency encouraged residents to check in on others who may be at higher risk and to follow any guidance from local authorities.

For real-time air quality updates and tips on how to reduce health risks, visit airhealth.ca or canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.

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