Fine particles of smog threaten to spoil the party for the 1st of July festivities.
Air quality still leaves much to be desired in Montreal, as the city ranks second in the list of cities with the worst air quality on Saturday.
The air quality index in the metropolis was 150 on Saturday afternoon, according to data from the online platform IQAir.
At the start of the day, this indicator was below 120.
Screenshot TVA News
The first place is occupied by the cities of Jakarta in Indonesia (163).
Air Quality Index (AQI)
What is the air quality index in your city and what are the health recommendations derived from it?
Air Quality Index (AQI US)
101-150
Bad
sensitive people
AQI: GOOD
Great day to be active outdoors.
AQI: MODERATE
Some people may be particularly sensitive to fine particle pollution
Particularly sensitive people: Consider reducing the duration and intensity of outdoor activities. Pay attention to symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. These are signs to slow down.
All the others : Great day to be active outdoors.
AQI: BAD for sensitive people
Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, the elderly, children and adolescents, minority populations and outdoor workers.
Sensitive groups: Reduce the duration and intensity of outdoor activities. It’s okay to be active outside, but take more breaks. Pay attention to symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath.
People with heart disease: Symptoms such as palpitations, shortness of breath, or unusual tiredness may indicate a serious problem. If you have any of these symptoms, contact your healthcare professional.
AQI: BAD for everyone
Sensitive people: Avoid prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities. Consider rescheduling or moving activities indoors.*
All the others : Reduce the duration and intensity of activities. Take more breaks from outdoor activities.
*Note: If you don’t have an air conditioner, staying indoors with the windows closed can be dangerous in extremely hot weather. If you feel hot, go to a place with air conditioning or check with your municipality to find out if cooling centers are available in your community.
AQI: VERY BAD
Sensitive people: Avoid all physical activity outdoors. Postpone it to a time when the air quality is better or move activities indoors.*
All the others : Avoid prolonged or strenuous activities. Consider rescheduling or moving activities indoors.*
*Note: If you don’t have an air conditioner, staying indoors with the windows closed can be dangerous in extremely hot weather. If you feel hot, go to a place with air conditioning or check with your municipality to find out if cooling centers are available in your community.
AQI: CRITICAL
All the others : Avoid all physical activity outdoors.
Sensitive people: Stay indoors and maintain a reduced activity level. Follow tips for keeping particulate levels low indoors.*
*Note: If you don’t have an air conditioner, staying indoors with the windows closed can be dangerous in extremely hot weather. If you feel hot, go to a place with air conditioning or check with your municipality to find out if cooling centers are available in your community.
Smog alerts are also in effect for several regions of Quebec, namely Abitibi-Témiscamingue, the Laurentians, Lanaudière, Laval, Mauricie and Estrie.
Fortunately, air quality should improve through the evening.