UPDATE June 7, 2025: An update this morning by Environment Canada states that smoke from wildfires in the Canadian Prairies will cause poor air quality and reduced visibility into Sunday. As of 9 a.m. the air quality index in Montreal was at 164 which is considered unhealthy. Significant wildfire activity continues across the western half of the country, sending smoke from the Arctic to the tropics—and even towards Europe.
If you’re finding it hard to breathe outside in Montreal today, it's with good reason.
Smoke from the Canadian wildfires is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility in Montreal, and will carry through the weekend.
A special air quality statement issued by Environment Canada warns that the smoke will lead to poor air quality and reduced visibility on Friday, and possibly Saturday.
People are advised to limit time spent outdoors, and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.
According to the world air quality report, IQAir, Montreal is the second most polluted city in the world, ranking ahead of Delhi in India and Santiago, Chile.
And while Toronto recently surpassed Montreal in the world’s best cities list, Toronto ranked behind Montreal as the 4th most polluted city on the planet.
What is causing the bad air quality in Montreal?
Smoke from the wildfires in the Canadian Prairies is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility in the Greater Montreal region.
What is the current air quality in Montreal?
As of 11:30 a.m., Montreal’s air quality index is at 168 and classified as unhealthy.
What are the most polluted cities in the world right now?
These are the world’s 15 most polluted cities:
1. Tashkent, Uzbekistan
2. Montreal, Canada
3. Santiago, Chile
4. Toronto, Canada
5. Delhi , India
6. Detroit , USA
7. Medan , Indonesia
8. Kinshasa , Democratic Republic of the Congo
9. Dakar , Senegal
10. Chicago , USA
11. Batam , Indonesia
12. Lahore , Pakistan
13. Chengdu , China
14. Manila , Philippines
15. Chongqing , China
What is the government's advice?
Environment Canada warns that people most at risk from air pollution are seniors (65+), pregnant individuals, infants and young children, those with chronic health conditions, and people who work outdoors.
As smoke levels rise, so do health risks. Outdoor activity should be limited and people should seek medical care if symptoms appear.
Common symptoms may include eye, nose or throat irritation, mild cough, or headaches.
More serious symptoms like wheezing, chest pain or severe coughing may occur.
Keep windows and doors closed, but if extreme heat is also present, prioritize staying cool.
To improve indoor air quality, use a certified portable air purifier or a high-quality air filter in your ventilation system.
If outdoor exposure is unavoidable, wear a well-fitting NIOSH-certified N95 respirator or equivalent mask to reduce smoke inhalation.
Note that even with a mask, some health risk remains.
Finally, check in on vulnerable neighbours or loved ones who may need assistance.
For air quality updates from Environment Canada, click here.
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