Smog and a risk of showers and thunderstorm warnings have been issued by Environment Canada for the Vaudreuil-Soulanges region today and Tuesday, June 27.

The forecast calls for 20 to 40 millimetres of rain in places today. Rainfall amounts could exceed 50 millimetres locally during thunderstorms. The same scenario could be repeated on Tuesday.

Smog warning continues

The smog warning has been in effect for several days across the province. Many municipalities cancelled their Fête nationale celebrations due to the presence of high levels of fine particles in the air, the result of ongoing forest fires in Quebec. 

These particles lead to poor air quality and reduced visibility. Environment Canada says that smoke from the forest fires can be harmful to everyone's health, even if concentrations are low.

People with lung disease (such as asthma) or heart disease, the elderly, children, pregnant women and people who work outdoors are at greater risk of health effects from forest fire smoke.

If anyone experiences shortness of breath, wheezing (including asthma attacks), severe coughing, dizziness or chest pain, they are advised to stop outdoor activities and contact a health professional.

Tips on dealing with smog

- Keep doors and windows closed if the temperature in your home is comfortable;

- Use an air purifier with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in a room where people and pets spend a lot of time;

- Avoid air purifiers that produce ozone. Check the filter and replace it if necessary;

- Take a break from the smoke by moving temporarily or go a place where the air is clean and fresh, such as a library, shopping mall or community centre;

- If you must spend time outdoors, wear a well-fitting respirator (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent) that does not allow air to pass through openings between the mask and the face. This can help reduce exposure to the fine particles in forest fire smoke.