Environment Canada has issued another special air quality statement as smoke from Manitoba forest fires creeps its way back into the region.

Meteorologists with Environment Canada say that forest fires in east-central Manitoba are to blame.

"Light winds and stagnant conditions are expected for another day or two before winds increase and help disperse the smoky air," the national weather forecaster says in an online statement, Tuesday morning.

"Much of eastern Manitoba will continue to see deterioration in air quality as smoky conditions persist. Conditions have also deteriorated in the Red River Valley this morning and will gradually improve later today as southerly winds develop."

The smoke will combine with high heat and humidity making for an unpleasant day for many. The temperature is expected to reach 33 degrees in Winnipeg on Tuesday, with a humidex value of 36 degrees.

Many parts of the west of the province have already been under air quality statements for a number of days. A large forest fire north of Hudson Bay, Saskatchewan is producing smoke which is being carried downwind into western Manitoba.

From Environment Canada:

Areas in the vicinity and immediately downwind of forest fires will continue to see poor air quality.

Due to the smoky conditions, individuals living in or travelling to the noted areas are advised to be aware of potential health concerns that can be associated with current air conditions. In these current conditions, even healthy individuals may experience sore eyes, tears, coughing and a runny nose.

In areas affected by smoke from wildland fires, Manitobans are encouraged to:
- limit outdoor activity and/or strenuous physical activity; if breathing becomes difficult or uncomfortable, stop or reduce the activity
- reduce exposure to smoke by staying indoors or moving to areas with cleaner air, as conditions can vary dramatically by area
- turn off furnaces and air-conditioning units that may draw smoke indoors
- keep indoor air cleaner by avoiding smoking or burning other materials

People at higher risk include young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with heart or lung conditions (particularly asthma), and therefore should avoid as much exposure to smoke as possible.

Current statements