Special air quality statement issued for York, Durham regions

YorkRegion.com
Aug. 10, 2016
By Chris Simon

It’s not just the heat you have to worry about now.

A special air quality statement has been issued for York and Durham regions Aug. 10. Potentially high levels of air pollution are expected, as hot and sunny conditions this afternoon cause heightened ground-level ozone concentrations.

Moderate risk air quality conditions are expected for most of the day, though high risk situations may occur this afternoon.

“Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath,” says the statement, which was issued by Environment Canada and the Ontario government. “Children, seniors and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.”

Anyone experiencing symptoms should consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous outdoor activities until the statement is lifted.

The air quality statement comes as a large portion of the province is experiencing sweltering heat and humid conditions. Daytime high temperatures are expected to range between 31 and 34 C through Friday, with Humidex values touching the high 30s and low 40s during that time. Overnight temperatures are also expected to be warm for the next few days.

For up-to-date alerts and weather information, visit weather.gc.ca. To report severe weather, send an email to storm.ontario@ec.gc.ca or tweet using the hashtag #ONStorm.