This Canadian city has the worst air quality in the world—and the skies have turned an eerie yellow

An orange alert is in effect for this city as wildfire smoke is creating hazardous air quality and poor visibility.

Smoke from wildfires burning in northwestern Ontario have drifted into the Toronto region, causing very poor air quality and significantly reduced visibility. 

Read more: Quebec expands fire ban as nearly 200 wildfires burn across the province

Who has the worst air quality in the world?

Toronto has been ranked among the worst in the world for air quality by IQAir, the Swiss technology company that ranks global air quality.

Where does Canada rank in air quality?

Surpassing Delhi, India, and Doha, Qatar, smoke from more than 100 active wildfires in northern Ontario has made Toronto the city with the worst air quality in the world, blanketing parts of Canada and the northeastern U.S. in a thick yellow haze.

According to a report by Environment Canada, conditions are expected to improve by Friday morning, but until then, residents are being urged to limit their exposure.

How to protect yourself from wildfire smoke?

Health officials warn that everyone is at risk during periods of heavy wildfire smoke, regardless of age or overall health.

People are advised to limit time outdoors and postpone or cancel outdoor sports, events and other physical activities whenever possible.

Exposure to wildfire smoke can cause symptoms including eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches and coughing. 

More serious reactions—such as wheezing, chest pain or persistent coughing—require immediate medical attention. 

Anyone experiencing a medical emergency should call emergency services without delay.

Those most vulnerable to wildfire smoke—including older adults, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with chronic health conditions and outdoor workers—should avoid strenuous outdoor activity and seek medical care if symptoms develop.

To reduce smoke exposure indoors, keep windows and doors closed whenever possible and use a portable air purifier or the highest-efficiency air filter compatible with your ventilation system. If temperatures become dangerously hot, staying cool should remain the priority.

If you need to go outside, keep your time outdoors to a minimum. A properly fitted N95 respirator or equivalent mask can help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles, although it does not eliminate all health risks.

Officials are also encouraging residents to check in on neighbours, family members and others who may be especially vulnerable while air quality remains poor.

For more information about the IQAir world air quality ranking, click here.

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