Smoke leads to air quality warning for Calgary, much of Alberta

Smoke leads to air quality warning for Calgary, much of Alberta

Some youth sports leagues cancel practice

Environment and Climate Change Canada issued a yellow warning for air quality Monday afternoon, saying smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility in Calgary and across much of the province.

Smoke has moved into parts of Alberta from northern Saskatchewan and is expected to remain for the next couple of days, the federal agency said.

The warning stretches west of Calgary and throughout northern, central and southern Alberta, including Edmonton, Red Deer, Banff, Canmore and Fort McMurray.

Environment and Climate Change Canada says exposure may lead to eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, or a mild cough. More severe symptoms include wheezing or chest pains.

The agency says high-risk individuals like seniors, young children and people with existing health conditions should reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities, sports and events.

Some minor sports teams and leagues across Calgary cancelled their practices Monday. A number of those groups don't allow outdoor practice when the Air Quality Health Index enters the "high risk" range of seven and above.