Montreal tops world pollution rankings as wildfire smoke chokes the city

Montreal has recorded the worst air quality in the world as thick smoke from wildfires in Canada’s Prairies continues to drift across the country. Data from Swiss monitoring company IQAir on Saturday(July 26) ranked Montreal as the most polluted city globally, surpassing major industrial centres.

The smoke, carried east by strong winds, has triggered air quality alerts across southern Quebec, prompting health officials to urge residents to limit outdoor activity.

Environment Canada has advised vulnerable groups, including those with heart or lung conditions, older adults, pregnant women, infants and young children, to avoid strenuous exercise outdoors this weekend.

Heatwave compounds risks

The poor air quality comes as southern Quebec faces a heat warning. Daytime temperatures are expected to rise above 30C through Tuesday, with nights staying warmer than 20 °C. The combination of heat and heavy smoke is increasing the risk of dehydration, breathing problems and heat-related illnesses.

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Fires burning hundreds of kilometres away

The haze originates from hundreds of active wildfires in Saskatchewan and Manitoba, part of what is already one of Canada’s most severe fire seasons on record. Plumes of smoke have travelled thousands of kilometres, affecting air quality as far east as Quebec and the Atlantic provinces.In Montreal, the sky appeared hazy on Saturday, with a smell of burning wood lingering in the air. Some residents reported irritation in their eyes and throat.Local clinics have reported an increase in patients with respiratory symptoms. Community centres are reminding people to use air conditioning in recirculate mode and, where possible, wear N95 masks when outdoors.

Officials warn the situation could persist if wind conditions do not change. Meteorologists say air quality may fluctuate in the coming days, but the heatwave is expected to continue into next week.

Canada has already seen record numbers of wildfire-related evacuations this year, and authorities fear the season could extend well into August.

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