Elevated pollution persists in Edmonton; air quality advisory still in effect

An air quality advisory remains in effect for Edmonton Thursday due to pollution.

Environment Canada says elevated levels of pollutants are expected to persist until Thursday evening.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) for the Alberta capital dropped to “moderate” by early afternoon.

That’s down from “high risk” bordering on “very high risk” on Wednesday, when the advisory was first issued.

Environment Canada says Edmontonians should limit time outdoors and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

The weather authority says symptoms could range from headaches, irritation or mild cough to wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.

“People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms,” the advisory reads.

Edmonton’s AQI is projected to drop to “low risk” levels by about midnight.