The City has activated its extreme weather response due to poor air quality caused by the wildfire smoke. The activation will be in effect until Friday, May 19, 2023 at 8 a.m. Air quality conditions have been changing rapidly and the activation timeline is subject to daily forecast changes of the Air Quality Health Index.

The extreme weather response implements City Policy C620 to ensure the

health and safety of all Edmontonians, particularly those who are vulnerable to extreme weather conditions. The threshold for air quality activations is three consecutive days of a score of 7 or higher on the Air Quality Health Index. This is the first activation of the extreme weather response due to poor air quality. This activation will include the following measures:

Edmontonians should ensure they are aware of steps they can take to reduce the health risks to themselves and others. For air quality, we encourage people to take any and all actions to reduce exposure to the smoke. Please keep all windows and doors of buildings and vehicles closed as much as possible during periods of poor air quality. Additional information on the hazards, symptoms, and health risks of smoke and poor air quality can be found in the Government of Alberta's daily update on wildfires and air quality.

We encourage Edmontonians to check in on older family, friends and neighbours. Edmontonians who are concerned about someone outside can help by calling:

The City’s extreme weather response supplements existing measures implemented by the Sector Emergency Response group, a collaboration of more than 25 agencies working together to ensure Edmonton’s most vulnerable people are safe during adverse weather conditions.

Sector Emergency Response

Communications Advisor

Communications and Engagement

780-446-0074