Hamilton and Burlington residents warned about rising air pollution

Residents of Hamilton and Burlington are being warned about potentially high levels of air pollution today (June 1).

Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement due to the “possibility of deteriorating air quality” as a result of hot and sunny conditions. A heat warning is in effect starting today in Hamilton and Halton Region including Burlington. 

The Air Quality Health Index, or AQHI, is a scale measuring air quality. According to Environment Canada, “moderate risk” AQHI values are expected throughout the day, and possibly “short-term high risk” AQHI values this afternoon into early this evening.

Those most at risk of the effects of air pollution include children, seniors, and those with underlying medical conditions such as cardiovascular or lung disease. Symptoms could include coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath, according to Environment Canada.

Click here for more information on how to reduce your health risk and air pollution updates.