A Yellow Air Quality Warning is in effect for Hay River and nearby Enterprise as wildfire smoke blankets the region, reducing visibility and posing health risks. Environment Canada issued the alert at 9:22 p.m. Sunday, and it remains in place until conditions get better.
Smoke from fires burning west of Fort Smith has drifted into the area. At 9 a.m. Monday, visibility at the Hay River airport sat at 10 km under smoky skies, with a temperature of 16.5 C and northwest winds gusting to 28 km/h. Forecasters expect smoke to stick around through Monday as the high reaches 24 C with a humidex of 28.
Officials say the poor air quality can be especially tough on seniors, pregnant women, young children, people with chronic health issues, and outdoor workers. Everyone is being told to limit time outside, keep windows shut, and consider wearing a properly fitted N95 mask if you have to go out.
The Northwest Territories has been hit hard by wildfires over the past three years. In late June, more than 1,300 people left Fort Simpson and another 130 evacuated from Wrigley, with most going to Yellowknife. The territory has 35 fire crews, over 100 specialists, and a fleet of helicopters and air tankers ready for a season that runs from May 1 to September 30.
Residents can check current conditions and updates through Environment Canada and local health officials.
