A Special Air Quality Statement is issued when the Air Quality Health Index for the region is forecast to reach the high-risk category (AQHI 7-10). The statement will remain in effect until a cancellation notice is issued. Populations considered at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by air pollution include:

Wildfire smoke from the Prairies prompted special air quality statements and warnings across the country Saturday.

Out with the heat, in with the smoke.Just as Toronto's fifth heat warning this year was lifted, Environment Canada issued a special air quality statement for the city Wednesday night.The statement is the result of smoke from forest fires over the Prairies drifting into southern Ontario,