Wildfire smoke could return to Calgary later this week

Calgary could see worsening air quality later this week as wildfire smoke from British Columbia moves into Alberta.

Environment Canada briefly issued a smoke advisory for Calgary Tuesday morning, but it was lifted after local winds helped clear the smoke. The smoke, which came from wildfires in the Northwest Territories, pushed Calgary's Air Quality Health Index to seven before conditions improved.

Edmonton experienced poorer air quality, with its AQHI reaching nine, considered a high-risk level.

Meteorologists say changing winds could bring smoke from B.C. wildfires into Calgary later this week, along with warmer temperatures. Four B.C. wildfires remain out of control, including three west of Kimberley, where about 9,000 residents are under evacuation orders. A major wildfire near Boston Bar has also prompted evacuation alerts.

Environment Canada says the smoke forecast remains uncertain because it depends on wildfire activity and changing weather conditions.

Calgary will see mainly sunny skies Wednesday, with temperatures feeling around 31 degrees with humidity and a slight risk of a late-day thunderstorm. There is a better chance of thunderstorms during the supper hours Thursday, while daytime highs are expected to remain around 30 degrees for the rest of the week.

Calgarians are being advised to stay prepared for potentially deteriorating air quality as wildfire conditions continue across Western Canada.