Toronto and surrounding areas are facing a significant air quality crisis as smoke from wildfires in Manitoba and Saskatchewan drifts into southern Ontario. On Friday, Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement, rating Toronto's air quality at a nine on the local health index, indicating a "high risk" level. This alarming situation has placed Toronto among the cities with the worst air quality globally, according to air quality technology company IQAir, which reported an air quality index score of 170, ranking the city second in the world for poor air quality.

The smoke, primarily composed of fine particulate matter known as PM2.5, is affecting a wide area, with the special weather statement covering regions from Windsor to Ottawa, including parts of the Greater Toronto Area such as York, Peel, and Durham. As the smoke continues to spread, Environment Canada is urging residents to limit outdoor activities due to the increasing health risks associated with elevated smoke levels.

The smoke is expected to intensify throughout the afternoon and evening, with forecasts indicating a gradual improvement around 10 p.m. However, more smoke is anticipated to return by noon on Saturday. Despite the smoke, Friday's weather is predicted to be a mix of sun and clouds, with a high of 24 degrees Celsius and a very high UV index of 8. Nighttime temperatures are expected to drop to 15 degrees Celsius with partial cloud cover.

Exposure to the smoke can lead to mild symptoms such as headaches, a mild cough, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and throat. More severe symptoms, including wheezing, chest pains, or a severe cough, may also occur. Individuals experiencing medical emergencies are advised to seek immediate help.

Certain groups are particularly vulnerable to the effects of outdoor air pollution, including seniors aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals, infants, young children, those with compromised immune systems, and outdoor workers. Environment Canada recommends that everyone limit their time outdoors and consider rescheduling strenuous activities like sports.

While indoors, residents should keep windows and doors closed to minimize smoke infiltration. In cases of extreme heat combined with poor air quality, the agency advises prioritizing cooling measures over outdoor exposure.

In Kitchener and the Waterloo Region, similar warnings have been issued as smoke continues to blanket the area. Kitchener's air quality reached a critical level of 10+, the highest on Ontario's Air Quality Health Index, before dropping to a moderate risk by Friday morning. Environment Canada expects air quality issues to persist over the weekend, with residents advised to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.