MONTREAL — Air quality warnings have been issued across southern Quebec as smoke from wildfires in the Canadian Prairies affects the region. Environment Canada reported that Montreal was ranked as having the worst air quality in the world on Saturday morning, according to IQAir, a Swiss air quality technology company. By early afternoon, the city fell to second place, behind Kinshasa, the capital of the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and reschedule sports and other events. Environment Canada stated, "During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status." The agency anticipates that air quality will improve by Saturday evening, returning to more normal levels by Sunday. The smoke is expected to shift toward New Brunswick and the northeastern United States.

A stagnant air mass has intensified the smoke conditions, but improved air circulation is forecasted for Sunday. Those most at risk include individuals with pre-existing health conditions, seniors, pregnant women, infants, and young children. They are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activities and seek medical attention if they experience symptoms.

Mild symptoms can include irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat, headaches, and mild coughing. More severe symptoms may involve wheezing, chest pain, and intense coughing. Environment Canada recommends keeping windows and doors closed indoors and suggests wearing N95 masks outdoors to reduce exposure to fine particles.

In addition to air quality concerns, heat warnings are in effect for southern Quebec for Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. Daytime temperatures are expected to exceed 30 degrees Celsius, with nighttime temperatures remaining above 20 degrees Celsius. The agency advises checking on elderly individuals and those living alone, and to be vigilant for early signs of heat exhaustion, which can include headache, nausea, dizziness, thirst, dark urine, and extreme fatigue.