MONTREAL - Wildfires raging across the Prairies have caused significant air quality issues, blanketing a large portion of Canada in a thick haze. Provinces including Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Ontario, Quebec, Saskatchewan, and Newfoundland and Labrador are all experiencing poor air quality and reduced visibility due to the ongoing fires. This situation is expected to persist through Sunday.

Southern Ontario was under an air quality statement on Thursday and Friday, which was lifted early Saturday morning. However, the effects of the wildfires continue to be felt across the region. Environment Canada meteorologist Jean-Philippe Bégin provided some hope, stating, "A low pressure system is currently moving through the Prairies, located in northern Saskatchewan, and is expected to reach Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario by Monday. This system is anticipated to bring much-needed precipitation to areas affected by the wildfires."

Despite this positive development, Bégin noted that northern Alberta is unlikely to see much relief, as forecasts indicate little rain in that area. In Montreal, public health officials are urging residents to take precautions. They recommend keeping windows closed, reducing outdoor activities, and limiting non-essential travel to mitigate health risks associated with the poor air quality.

The air quality issues affect the entire population, but certain groups are particularly vulnerable. Children under the age of 5, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with heart or respiratory conditions are at greater risk. As the wildfires continue to burn, officials are closely monitoring the situation and advising residents to stay informed.