Smoke hits Saskatchewan as Fort McMurray wildfires burn

Saskatchewan is still breathing smoke coming from the wildfires near Fort McMurray, Alta.

According to Environment Canada, northwest winds are spreading the smoke from the wildfires in northeast Alberta to western Saskatchewan.

As a result, someareas will experience poor air quality and reduced visibility.

• Environment Canada warns of smoky air in northern Saskatchewan
• With an eye on Fort McMurray, Sask. prepares for its own fire season

The weather station has issued a special air quality statements for north-western Saskatchewan, including Saskatoon, Buffalo Narrows, Beauval, le la Crosse, La Loche, Clearwater River Provincial Park, Cluff Lake, Martensville, Warman, Rostern, Delisleand Wakaw.

The statement is also extended to the communities of Meadow Lake, Big River, Green Lake, Pierceland, Prince Albert, Shellbrook, Spiritwood, Duck Lake, the Battlefords, Unity, Maidstone and St. Walburg.

Smoke nearing the ground is causing very high health risk conditions creatingsymptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.

Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease are especially at risk.

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