The Weather Network
habitats

Wildfire smoke prompts closures, warnings in northwestern Ontario

Published on Jun. 3, 2025, 2:30 PM

Canada Games Complex pool and track closed due to poor air quality

Wildfire smoke spreading throughout northwestern Ontario has prompted closures and event cancellations on Tuesday.

Environment and Climate Change Canada has issued air quality warnings for the Ear Falls, Pickle Lake, Pikangikum, Red Lake and Sandy Lake areas.

Meanwhile, special air quality statements have been issued for the following areas:

  • Armstrong.

  • Atikokan.

  • Beardmore.

  • Thunder Bay.

  • Dryden.

  • Ignace.

  • Nipigon.

  • Sioux Lookout.

DON'T MISS: Get the latest wildfire news and safety tips to help you stay safe

Wildfire smoke from Ontario and Manitoba wildfires may remain in the region for the next several days, Environment and Climate Change Canada said.

"As smoke levels increase, health risks increase," the Northwestern Health Unit said in a news release issued Monday.

SEE ALSO: Wildfires prompt air quality alerts, evacuations in northwestern Ontario

"Forest fire smoke is made up of a mixture of gases and fine particles that can be harmful to your health. You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance," it says.

Content continues below

The health unit is recommending people limit their time outdoors, and keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.

Air quality concerns led the Canada Games Complex in Thunder Bay to close its pool and track until further notice.

The Thunder Bay Catholic District School Board's elementary track and field event, which was scheduled for Tuesday, has also been cancelled due to air quality, the board said in a Facebook post.

The event has been rescheduled for Thursday, weather and air quality permitting, the post says.

Lakehead Public Schools, meanwhile, said on social media Tuesday that the intermediate three-pitch tournament has been postponed, and indoor recess implemented, because of the smoke.

This article, written by Kris Ketonen, was originally published by CBC News.

Thumbnail image courtesy of Manitoba Government/Handout/Reuters via CBC News.