A hazy smoke from recent forest fires has blanketed the capital and may continue to do so for a few days, according to Environment Canada.
Meteorologist Peter Kimbell said a storm forecast for the evening of July 14 has not changed because of the smoke, though the extreme heat might not reach an anticipated high of 35 because the hazy air might make it difficult for sunshine to penetrate as deep into the atmosphere.
“We’re looking for showers and risk of thunderstorms late this afternoon and this evening. That’s more likely to occur regardless, but if we did get a little bit less than we anticipate, then it’s possible that that’s also a result of the reduction in heat,” Kimbell said.
Ottawa’s hazy sky — which Kimbell said will potentially last a few days — has two sources.
“One is from the forest fires over Quebec to the north of us, but there’s also forest fires to the west of us. In particular, over Northwestern Ontario, and the smoke will be coming from there as well and adding to the haziness coming from Quebec.”
Heat expected to pass
Early on July 14, Environment Canada issued a yellow warning for heat that its website says is expected to last until July 15 or 16 in southern Ontario.
The evening of July 14 will mark the peak of this heat event, with a humidex that might feel more like 43 degrees.
But Kimbell thinks the heat might pass sooner than that.
“That is going to be a one-day wonder, because tomorrow we’re looking at a high of 29, so substantially less hot, but still well above average. So the temperatures are really a one-day affair for today,” he said.
Air quality a low risk
Because the smoke is much higher in the atmosphere, it isn’t causing a reduction in air quality, said Kimbell, who added that it’s difficult to tell whether the smoky air will get worse before it gets better because it depends on winds.
Though it’s still considered low risk, the EC’s website suggests staying hydrated and moving to a cooler space if possible. If your living space is hot, it says, move to a cool public space such as a cooling centre, community centre or library.
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