Forest fire smoke has elevated Montreal’s air to levels that health authorities classify as the highest worldwide, according to the air quality monitoring group IQAir. The situation has drawn urgent attention from residents and officials as the city battles a pervasive smoke plume drifting from wildfires across the region.
Experts described the progression of the crisis over the weekend. On Sunday, June 25, the daily air quality index surged to 190, signaling dangerously poor air. By Monday, June 26, the index had eased somewhat to 158, though it remained well above healthy levels. For perspective, Montreal’s score at the time placed it near the top of global alerts, slightly ahead of Sao Paulo. Typically, Moscow experiences unfavorable days with values around 60, which is already labeled moderately harmful, making a 190 reading in Montreal a stark outlier. Early on the 25th, hourly readings in Montreal exceeded 280 during the morning period, underscoring the severity of the smoke event.
In response to the deteriorating air, Environment Canada advised residents to limit outdoor exposure and to wear protective masks if outdoor activity is unavoidable. Public health guidance emphasized minimizing time outdoors, closing windows to reduce smoke infiltration, and using air filtration measures when possible. Community spaces like outdoor pools and sports facilities were closed as a precaution, and a number of outdoor events, including concerts and sporting activities, were cancelled to protect public health.
Quebec’s wildfire agency, SOPFEU, reported that 80 active wildfires were burning within the province, with several intensifying as hot, dry conditions persisted. Officials explained that the dense smoke presents operational challenges for front-line responders, complicating the work of firefighters and limiting the effectiveness of aerial efforts, including helicopter operations. The agency stressed the need for sustained vigilance and readiness as weather conditions continue to influence fire behavior.
Across Canada, national wildfire response agencies noted that more than 450 fires were active nationwide, with roughly 240 of those considered out of control. These figures illustrate the broader scale of the event and the ongoing risk that the smoke and fires pose to communities, infrastructure, and air quality. Authorities continued to monitor fire activity and air quality closely, updating residents as conditions evolved.
Public health and safety considerations during smoke events extend beyond immediate air quality readings. Smoke contains fine particulate matter that can penetrate deep into the lungs and enter the bloodstream, potentially aggravating respiratory conditions, triggering heart-related symptoms, and affecting vulnerable populations such as children, older adults, and those with preexisting health issues. Health officials advise people in areas affected by smoke to stay indoors when air quality is poor, use high-efficiency particulate air filters where possible, and seek medical attention if symptoms such as shortness of breath, coughing, or chest tightness worsen.
As communities adapt to the ongoing threat, residents are encouraged to stay informed through local meteorological updates and official health advisories. Simple actions can reduce exposure: keeping indoor air clean with sealed windows, using portable air purifiers if available, staying hydrated, and planning limited outdoor activities during periods of better air quality. For families with sensitive individuals, reviewing medication plans and having a clear plan to seek care if symptoms escalate is prudent.
Authorities continue to emphasize that wildfire smoke episodes can be prolonged and unpredictable. Preparedness, adherence to public health guidance, and cooperation with emergency services remain essential through the duration of this event and any subsequent air quality fluctuations. Attribution: IQAir, SOPFEU, Environment Canada, and the Canadian Interagency Wildfire Centre provide ongoing data and advisories throughout the emergency period.