Orange

Orange-level air quality warning extended into weekend in Waterloo region, Guelph and area

Wildfires in northwestern Ontario 'causing very poor air quality and reduced visibility,' alert says

The orange-level warning for air quality has been extended for Waterloo region, Guelph and area with Environment and Climate Change Canada saying "poor air quality may persist into the weekend."

The smoke that's causing a haze over the area is from wildfires in northwestern Ontario. The fires have caused evacuations, highway and road closures, air quality warnings, event cancellations, and other issues for the communities and people in the communities in that part of the province.

Ontario's Air Quality Health Index put Kitchener, Guelph and Brantford's air quality at a 10+, which is very high risk, for much of the day Friday.

"During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status. Limit time outdoors. Reschedule or cancel outdoor sports, activities and events," the weather alert said.

Kitchener sees some of the worst air quality in Canada Friday

The conditions mean local municipalities have implemented some measures to keep people safe, including:

People should watch for symptoms related to the smoke, including eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough.

Wildfire smoke reaches Waterloo region and area

The forecast is calling for widespread smoke on Friday. The temperatures is expected to hit a high of 26 C but will feel like 31 C because of the humidity.

There's a 40 per cent chance of a thunderstorm Friday evening and overnight.

Saturday is expected to be cloudy with 60 per cent chance of showers and risk of a thunderstorm, a high of 24 C but feeling like 33 C.

Police remind drivers to turn on headlights

Police are also reminding people that the haze from smoke should be treated similarly to fog. Sgt. Ed Sanchuk with West Region Ontario Provincial Police says even during daylight hours, smoke and haze can make it difficult for people to see other drivers.

"Do not rely solely on daytime running lights as it may not activate your rear lights. Make sure that you increase your following distance and reduce your speed when visibility is limited and stay alert for changing roadway conditions and emergency vehicles," Sanchuk said in a video posted to X, formerly Twitter.

"Your vehicle's headlights help increase your visibility and allow other road users to spot you sooner, reducing the risk of collisions."

Kate is the producer for CBC Kitchener-Waterloo. She has been covering issues in southern Ontario for more than 20 years. Reach her by email: kate.bueckert@cbc.ca.