Air quality statement issued in Ontario due to Manitoba wildfires

Severe wildfires in Manitoba are sending smoke plumes to parts of Ontario.

The fires were first detected in early May in an area north of The Pas, a town more than 500 kilometres northwest of Winnipeg. They remained “out of control” this week, according to Manitoba’s fire map.

The smoke plumes were spreading over portions of northwestern Ontario, Environment and Climate Change Canada said in a special air quality statement issued on Tuesday morning.

“Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility,” the statement said.

The worst conditions are expected for locations near to the Ontario-Manitoba border, northwest of Kenora. Smoke may continue to affect the area through Wednesday.

As smoke levels increase, health risks increase and Environment Canada suggested residents in the affected areas limit time outdoors and reschedule outdoor sports, activities and events. People should also keep windows and doors closed as much as possible.

Smoke can cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough.

Learn more at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.

Smoke plumes from fires near the Manitoba border are spreading over portions of northwestern Ontario.

A special air quality statement has been issued.

Details 👉 https://t.co/LGvAMkIWPQ#ONstorm #ONwx pic.twitter.com/EewVHTVzuz

— ECCC Weather Ontario (@ECCCWeatherON) May 13, 2025