Air quality alert means people should be careful in Mississauga: city

City officials are urging people in Mississauga to take precautions on Wednesday — and likely beyond — as smoke from northern Ontario wildfires that’s travelled south has prompted air quality alerts across the Greater Toronto Area.

“Smoke is now affecting southern Ontario, including Mississauga, leading to poor air quality and reduced visibility,” the City of Mississauga said in a public advisory issued Wednesday morning. “Smoke from forest fires is expected to impact air quality in Mississauga, with conditions that may persist through the day. As smoke levels rise, so do health risks — making it important for residents to stay informed and take steps to protect themselves.”

Environment Canada issued the air quality warnings and says the poor air quality may last until Thursday in some areas. The national agency noted that common symptoms of smoke inhalation include throat irritation, headache and cough.

The weather agency’s warnings are active from Thunder Bay down to Kingston in the east and as far west as London.

Environment and Climate Change Canada urges people to limit their time outdoors and warns of the health risks of inhaling smoke.

The poor air quality comes as large swaths of Ontario are dealing with the second day of a heatwave that pushed humidex values as high as 45 C in some areas on Tuesday.

When extreme heat occurs alongside poor air quality, Environment Canada advises people to prioritize keeping cool.

City officials said wildfire season is underway in Canada, with fires burning across several regions, including northern Ontario.

“Wildfire smoke can travel long distances and differs from typical urban air pollution. It contains fine particles and harmful gases that can enter the lungs and bloodstream, potentially causing inflammation and affecting overall health,” the city said in its advisory.

Environment and Climate Change Canada monitors and reports air quality using the Air Quality Health Index and issues Special Air Quality Statements when conditions worsen, the city added.

People who are more likely to be impacted by poor air conditions, according to the city, include:

• Adults aged 65 and older
• Pregnant women
• Infants and young children
• People with existing health conditions, especially heart or lung issues
• People who work outdoors

“These groups should reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities and seek medical advice if symptoms develop,” officials said.

— with files from The Canadian Press

Air quality alert in Mississauga!

Wildfire smoke from northern Ontario is impacting our air quality today, causing hazy skies and reduced visibility. As smoke levels rise, so do health risks.

Protect yourself:
– Limit time outdoors
– Keep windows & doors closed
– Reschedule… pic.twitter.com/auR0QxJdXA

— City of Mississauga (@citymississauga) July 15, 2026

(Cover photo: City of Mississauga)