Our area is being hit with two alerts today.
First, the air quality alert is still hanging on, and now there is the possibility of heavy rain.
Very high levels of air pollution have developed due to smoke from forest fires. Smoke plumes from forest fires in Quebec and northeastern Ontario will continue to affect the area, resulting in deteriorated air quality. Conditions are expected to improve for some areas tonight or Wednesday.
BayToday has installed an air quality sensor at its downtown office. You can check the real-time readings here.
In addition, localized heavy rainfall of nearly 40 mm is possible this morning.
Slow-moving showers have developed and some areas may receive significant rainfall amounts.
Heavy downpours can cause flash floods and water pooling on roads. If visibility is reduced while driving, slow down, watch for tail lights ahead and be prepared to stop. Localized flooding in low-lying areas is possible.
See: Health Unit responds to some FAQs on poor air quality
And Conservation Authority has flooding concerns after rain today
The air quality/rainfall alert is issued for:
- North Bay - West Nipissing
- Powassan - Mattawa
- Sudbury
- Burk's Falls - South River
- Kirkland Lake - Temiskaming Shores - Temagami
- Huntsville
- Parry Sound - Muskoka
There are currently 26 active wildland fires in the Northeast Region. Of these, 8 are not under control, 7 are being held, 10 fires are under control and 1 is being observed.
There have been no new fires confirmed today in the region.
The fire hazard is low to high across the majority of the region.
A restricted fire zone remains in effect for the entire fire region of Ontario. Outdoor fires are banned.
See: Recent rain not enough to lift fire ban says Chief Whiteley
