Wildfire smoke covers Pinnacle Hill in Renfrew on June 16th, 2026 (MBC News File Photo)
Wildfire smoke from northwestern Ontario continues to create issues locally.
Environment Canada has placed the area under an air quality warning as the smoke lowers air quality and reduces visibility in the Ottawa Valley.
The weather agency recommends limiting time outdoors and either reducing or rescheduling activities and events. Keep windows and doors closed as much as possible to protect your indoor spaces.
Common mild symptoms from smoke inhalation include eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains, or a severe cough.
If you need to spend time outdoors, a well-constructed and properly worn respirator-type mask can reduce exposure to fine particles in the smoke.
(written by Kasey Egan)
