Ontario faced some of the worst air quality in the world on Wednesday, caused by wildfire smoke.
At one point, Toronto was at the top of the global rankings as conditions worsened throughout the day.
Poor air quality is set to continue on Thursday in southern Ontario.
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Wildfires Persist in Northeastern Ontario with Smoke Spreading
A wildfire outbreak earlier this week in northern Ontario continues to fuel severe fire activity. Uncontrolled fires are still raging and spreading quickly in northwestern Ontario. PHOTOS: Blanket of wildfire smoke creates eerie skies in Ontario and Quebec The smoke from wildfires in northern Ontario has traveled over 1,000 km, carried southeast by the jet stream. Hazy skies, reduced sunlight, and a smoky smell have been reported.WATCH: Torontonians shocked by pale, orange sky as smoke invades the city
On Wednesday, wildfire smoke created very poor air quality across southern Ontario, including areas like the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Windsor, and Ottawa. Toronto had the worst air quality globally as thick smoke filled the lower atmosphere.Poor Air Quality Expected to Continue on Thursday
A silver lining: The wildfire smoke helped keep temperatures cooler as Toronto prepared for another day of low- to mid-30s heat. The temperature hovered around 25°C all day due to heavy cloud cover from the smoke plume. On Thursday, we expect a slight improvement in air quality for the GTA compared to Wednesday’s levels. However, it will still be classified as a high-risk day with poor air quality lingering. The densest part of the smoke plume is expected to shift further south, impacting London, Sarnia and Windsor more than on Wednesday. DON’T MISS: The Weather Network’s hub for all wildfire information in Canada The smoke should gradually lift from northeast to south by late Thursday across eastern Ontario. Kingston and Peterborough may experience clearer conditions by Thursday evening. The GTA and parts of southwestern Ontario could see better visibility Friday morning. There’s still quite a bit of uncertainty regarding when southwestern Ontario will be free from smoke since fires continue to grow. Northwesterly winds might carry smoke into the weekend. This situation poses increased health risks for people with respiratory issues along with hazy conditions and noticeably red sunrises and sunsets. It’s advised that outdoor activities be limited until air quality improves.WATCH: Tips to help protect yourself from wildfire smoke
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