Air quality alerts in effect for Kenora, Red Lake, Sioux Lookout areas

Forest fire smoke is continuing to affect air quality in several areas of Northwestern Ontario.

Environment Canada has issued special air quality statements for parts of the region including Kenora, Sioux Lookout, Red Lake and the remote north, as high levels of air pollution have developed from the smoke.

Environment Canada noted that wildfire smoke can be harmful, even at low concentrations. People are encouraged to take measures to reduce their exposure to the smoke.

"Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour," the statement noted.

As of Sunday, there were 44 active wildfires burning in the northwest region.