Wildfire smoke has put Calgary under an orange-level air quality advisory heading into the weekend with the air quality health index (AQHI) at a 10+ on Friday morning. Smoke is tricky to forecast as it’s relative in part to the number of wildfires burning – which can change on a dime during prolonged stretches of heat. At the moment, models are predicting south westerly winds at 20-40 km/h Friday afternoon will keep air quality poor for Calgary and the surrounding areas as it continues to funnel smoke from wildfires burning in BC and the U.S. There appears to be gradual improvement on the air quality front by the end of the weekend, but again, that story could change if new wildfires break out. During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of age or health status, and people should limit their time outdoors and reschedule any sports, activities and events that are outside. As for the temperature, the anticipated high for Friday is 30 C, but be prepared for temperatures to be cooler due to the smoke. There’s also another slight chance of afternoon thunderstorms for Calgary, but thick smoke typically hampers convection from taking place. The rest of the weekend is expected to be warm as well with highs remaining in the upper twenties to low thirties.
