Residents urged to stay indoors as poor air quality expected to continue through Friday
July 15, 2026
FORT ERIE – Wildfire smoke drifting south from active forest fires in northwestern Ontario has prompted an air quality warning for Fort Erie and much of southern Ontario, with Environment Canada advising residents to take precautions as conditions are expected to worsen and remain poor through Friday.
The smoke has pushed local air quality into the moderate to poor range, creating health concerns for everyone, not just those with existing medical conditions. Officials say exposure to wildfire smoke can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and coughing. More serious symptoms, including wheezing, chest pain or severe coughing, require immediate medical attention.
Those most at risk include seniors, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people with heart or lung disease, and anyone working outdoors. Health officials recommend these groups avoid strenuous outdoor activities and seek medical advice if symptoms develop.
Residents are encouraged to limit the amount of time spent outdoors and postpone or cancel outdoor sports, recreational activities and community events whenever possible. While indoors, windows and doors should remain closed to help keep smoke out. If extreme heat becomes a concern, residents should prioritize staying cool while taking steps to improve indoor air quality, such as using high-efficiency furnace filters or certified portable air cleaners.
Anyone who must be outside for extended periods is encouraged to wear a properly fitted respirator, such as a NIOSH-certified N95 mask or equivalent. While these masks can reduce exposure to harmful fine particles found in wildfire smoke, they do not eliminate all health risks.
The smoke affecting southern Ontario is being carried from numerous wildfires burning across northwestern Ontario and the Prairies. A lingering heat dome has trapped the smoke close to the ground, creating widespread haze and significantly reducing air quality across the province.
On Wednesday, Toronto was ranked as having the poorest air quality in the world by IQAir. In response to the deteriorating conditions, the City of Niagara Falls cancelled its scheduled Wednesday evening fireworks display.
Officials are also asking residents to check on elderly neighbours, family members and others who may be especially vulnerable during the smoke event.
Environment Canada and the Province of Ontario continue to monitor conditions and encourage residents to stay informed by following the latest weather statements and air quality alerts. Air Quality Health Index forecasts and additional health information are available through provincial and federal air quality resources.
