Air quality throughout most of Saskatchewan, including Moose Jaw, has taken a nosedive since Thursday evening as west-northwest winds blanket the region with forest fire smoke. 

The air quality in Moose Jaw is currently 7.8 times over the World Health Organization’s (WHO) air quality guideline value sitting at 39.2 micrograms per cubic metre. 5 micrograms per cubic metre is the target. 

Unfortunately for those who are sensitive to the smoke, it’s expected to stick around throughout the weekend. 

“Areas towards the Alberta border like Leader, Swift Current and Shaunavon they could see this into next week. Areas like Moose Jaw and Regina, might see a break here and there over the weekend, but it's not going to be until later in the weekend when we start to see a south flow really develop and kind of push some of the smoke out of the way,” said Environment and Climate Change Canada Meteorologist, Justin Shaer. 

People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, older adults, children, pregnant people, and people who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke. 

“If you are particularly vulnerable, the best thing to do is avoid [the smoke] as best you can. Limiting or completely stopping any outdoor activities. Trying to keep your indoor air clean as best you can by keeping your indoors and windows closed if it's possible and they put an air purifier on,” said Shaer. 

“Taking breaks is also important if you are outside just so you're not overexerting yourself and inhaling more [smoke] than you need to. It's really about taking breaks and limiting the exposure to the smoke as best you can,” added Shaer.