A special air quality statement has been issued in Chatham-Kent, as hot and humid weather conditions are creating elevated pollution levels.
“High levels of air pollution are possible this afternoon into early this evening,” officials with Environment Canada and the Province of Ontario stated.
“A special air quality statement is in place due to the possibility of deteriorating air quality. Hot and sunny conditions are expected to cause increasing ground-level ozone concentrations this afternoon in the above regions. Moderate risk AQHI values are expected throughout the day with the potential of short-term high risk AQHI values in the afternoon and early this evening.”
Officials say individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.
Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk, officials added.
“Exposure to air pollution is particularly a concern for children, the elderly, and those who have underlying medical conditions such as lung or heart disease,” officials with Environment Canada and the Province of Ontario stated.
Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.
Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
