Smoke from wildfires is expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility across nearly all of the Ottawa-Gatineau region, according to an alert issued by Environment Canada on Thursday.

Drifting smoke is expected to affect air quality Thursday night and Friday morning. The lone local exception is the Grenville-sur-la-Rouge area.

The smoke may pose health risks, Environment Canada said, advising people in affected areas to limit time outdoors and to consider rescheduling outdoor activities.

Ottawa's Air Quality Health Index could be 7, or high, early Friday morning, according to a different Environment Canada forecast.

Environment Canada advises that people over 65, pregnant people, children, people with pre-existing health conditions and people who work outdoors are more lik

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