2,500 firefighters are currently fighting wildfires in Alberta

Much of Alberta remains blanketed by smoke causing poor air quality conditions as numerous out-of-control wildfires continue to rage in the province.

Edmonton is under a special air quality statement, issued by Environment Canada, as smoke from the fires has been swept into the area by winds from the north.

On Wednesday morning, both Edmonton & Calgary’s air quality index rating was 10+, or very high risk.

Dr. Laura McDougall, senior medical officer of health with Alberta Health Services, said symptoms from the smoke may include general fatigue, throat or eye irritation, coughing, wheezing, headaches, or shortness of breath. It is also more likely to “negatively impact individuals with respiratory conditions, such as COPD or asthma, and individuals with cardiovascular conditions such as angina or previous heart attack,” she said.

There are 92 active wildfires in the province as of Wednesday afternoon and 28 are out of control.

2,500 firefighters are currently fighting the fires — 1,600 from Alberta Wildfire, and 900 others from the Canadian Armed Forces, other provinces and the United States.

Another 61 firefighters arrived Tuesday from Ontario, with 21 more from New Brunswick arriving on Wednesday.

As of Wednesday evening, 11,990 Albertans remain evacuated with 19 evacuation orders in place.

Hot and dry weather conditions are expected for the long weekend, and there is no significant chance of rain is in the forecast until early next week, when a low pressure system is expected to dump some rain Monday or Tuesday.

AHS is offering resources for those who have been impacted by the wildfires.

By texting ‘wildfire’ to 88111, individuals can receive text messages with information on topics including air quality, how to report a wildfire, resources for planning ahead, mental health supports, and the effects of wildfire smoke on health.

Health Link has wildfire information that is shared while on hold with 811. A virtual hold feature also allows Albertans to request a call back instead of waiting, where they will receive a call from a nurse as soon as their turn in the queue comes up.

A toll-free Indigenous support line, available in the North and South Zones, is available by calling 1-844-944-4744. The support line is staffed by Indigenous Health Link staff and available on weekdays from noon to 8 p.m.