A special air quality statement is in effect for the Foothills.

Environment Canada issued the statement early Friday morning stating that smoke from wildfires in northern Alberta is causing poor air quality and reducing visibility over much of the province.

The air quality statement is in effect for the following areas:

-Foothills Co. near Cayley
-Foothills Co. near High River and Aldersyde
-Foothills Co. near Longview and Eden Valley Res.
-Foothills Co. near Okotoks and De Winton
-Foothills Co. near Priddis and Brown-Lowery Prov. Park
-Foothills Co. near Turner Valley and Black Diamond
-M.D. of Willow Creek near Claresholm and Stavely
-M.D. of Willow Creek near Nanton and Parkland
-Rocky View Co. near Bragg Creek and Tsuu T'ina Res.

The thickest smoke is expected to move northwestwards later Friday morning for southern and central regions as the flow continues to shift to southeasterly.

Conditions may remain hazy into the weekend.

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headache, or shortness of breath.

Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

They may experience more serious health effects at lower levels.

Albertans are being cautioned to stay inside if breathing difficulties are experienced.

For more information click here.

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