Beijing and Mumbai have MUCH better air quality than Calgary right now
It’s a smoky day in Calgary, and the air quality in the city has dipped to levels so low that spots like Beijing and Mumbai look like they have crisp, clean mountain air in comparison.
According to IQAir’s World Air Quality Index of major cities, Mumbai, India, has an air quality index of 63, while Beijing, China, has an index of 73, as of Thursday morning.
Compare that to Calgary and the surrounding area, with wildfire smoke raising the air quality index to an uncomfortable 167 in the southern portion of the city, and the index above 100 across most of the area, averaging at about 143.
IQAir
Nearby towns and cities were also not doing so hot when it comes to air quality, with Strathmore as a whole sitting at 151, Cochrane at 136, and the station in Okotoks at 154.
A city ranking from across the country revealed that Calgary currently has the fourth-worst air quality index, only bested by Chetwynd, B.C., Red Deer, and Regina, Sask.
IQAir
Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) has issued a special air quality statement for portions of the province, including Calgary, saying that smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility.
“Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour. Air quality is expected to continue to improve today in some regions,” says ECCC.
The federal weather agency adds that if you or anyone in your care is exposed to wildfire smoke, you should consider taking extra precautions to reduce exposure.
People may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, headaches, or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.
Individuals more likely to be affected by outdoor air pollution include those aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, individuals with existing illnesses or chronic health conditions, and those who work outdoors. Individuals in the above categories should reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.