Wildfires from B.C., Alberta bring smokey conditions to Saskatchewan

Wildfires in British Columbia and Alberta have brought smoke to Saskatchewan.

The west and central part of the province will see the most smoke over the next 24 hours.

Brad Vrolijk, lead forecaster with Climate Change & Environment Canada said most of the smoke has traveled south through a cold front.

“So along that front we are essentially seeing poor visibility,” said Vrolijk. “That cold front will continue to drop south throughout the day.”

As the smoke continues to move south it will lose its strength, resulting in some areas being affected by smoke but not having an air quality statement.

Vrolijk said the smoke won’t stick around for a long time.

“Most areas will only see four to eight hours of poor conditions,” said Vrolijk. “We’ll see the improvement through the central parts of the province later (Saturday) afternoon.., and for the southern parts of the province through the overnight period.”

Saskatoon is expected to see a lot of smoke, with the air quality index reaching seven.

Vrolijk said when it hits that level people are urged to stay inside.

“Values of four to six is where people with pre existing conditions and sensitivities may begin to notice the degraded air quality,” said Vrolijk. “Once we hit seven and higher we recommend most people reduce outdoor time.”

Air quality across the province is expected to improve by Sunday.