Toronto had the most polluted air on Earth for a short time today because wildfire smoke spread into the area. CTV
Toronto’s air turned dangerous on Friday due to heavy smoke drifting in from wildfires burning in other parts of Canada. For a short time, the city had the worst air quality in the world. It later dropped to second place, but the smoky skies stayed.
Smoke Comes From Wildfires Across Canada
Fires burning in northern Ontario and Western Canada caused the smoky conditions. Over 15 new wildfires started this month alone. Most are out of control and sending smoke far south. A weather expert explained that only a few people see the fires, but millions feel their effects.
Health Warning Issued for Ontario and Beyond
The smoke has triggered special air quality warnings. These alerts now cover Toronto, much of southern Ontario, and parts of five other provinces and one territory. On Friday, Environment Canada said Toronto’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) would reach a level 7 out of 10. That is considered a “high risk” to health.
What Residents Should Do
People in affected areas should avoid spending too much time outside. Children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with asthma or lung issues face the most risk. The smoke can irritate eyes, throat, and nose. It may also cause headaches, coughing, or even chest pain in more serious cases.
Smoky Skies to Stick Around
Toronto’s skies may stay hazy and smell like smoke until early next week. A weather expert joked that when summer weather finally arrived, it didn’t bring blue skies but “cruddy-smelling air.” He added that the air quality levels will likely go up and down through the weekend.
Events and Activities at Risk
Because of the poor air quality, health officials suggest people cancel or move outdoor sports, events, and exercise sessions indoors. The more smoke in the air, the higher the health risk.
What’s Causing the Bad Air?
Experts say the smoke is from dozens of wildfires burning out of control. The wind carries it south where it mixes into local air, making it dangerous to breathe. The smoke doesn’t just lower visibility—it brings pollutants that are hard on the lungs.
