A thick layer of smoke continues to blanket the city from wildfires burning in the mountain parks and a precautionary air quality advisory for Alberta remains in effect.
The smoke is being pushed into the city from the wildfires along the B.C./Alberta boundary and a precautionary air quality advisory was issued for the province on Wednesday.
Environment Canada’s Air Quality Index for Calgary is expected to be six on Thursday and is considered to be a moderate risk.
Parks Canada crews are battling lightening-ignited wildfires in Kootenay, Yoho and Banff National parks.
The Wardle wildfire is the largest and has grown to more than 1400 hectares.
Officials say there are 120 firefighters battling the blaze and so far there is no threat to property in the area.
The smoke is a concern for people who have health conditions and officials are advising those who are affected by the smoke to take precautions.
Fire restrictions have been put in place prohibiting open fires on private land, backcountry and non-designated camp sites in some sections of southern Alberta. Fireworks and exploding targets are also banned.
The restriction is for the Calgary Forest Area, from south of Highway 32 to the northern boundary of Waterton Lakes National Park.
Fire permits have been suspended and no new permits will be issued while the restriction is in place.
Campfires in fire rings at campgrounds are still allowed as are gas and propane stoves and barbecues and portable fire pits.
A fire ban has also been issued in Rocky View County due to the elevated fire risk.
For the latest information on fire bans in the province click HERE.
