Montreal has been identified as having the worst air quality in the world, according to a report by IQAir, a Swiss company that specializes in air quality monitoring. This dire state is the result of smoke coming from wildfires raging in the Canadian Prairies. The harsh weather has led to air quality alerts throughout southern Quebec, severely affecting citizens’ everyday lives.
Environment Canada has been working to combat the crisis by issuing air quality warnings telling people to limit outdoor activity. These alerts disproportionately impact sensitive groups, such as those with comorbidities, the elderly, pregnant women, as well as infants and children. The agency’s notice was published on July 26, 2025, at 10:34 am, highlighting the urgent need for public awareness.
Health Risks and Recommendations
The intersection of that hazardous air quality and extreme heat is a one-two punch that significantly raises health risks. Environment Canada is recommending that people should take measures to reduce their exposure to this dangerous air quality. They urge Americans to avoid spending extended time outdoors, particularly during peak heat hours. Daytime highs in southern Quebec may soar above 30 degrees Celsius. At night, they will be more than 20 degrees C warmer.
For those particularly susceptible to air pollution, such as seniors and individuals with pre-existing health conditions, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities is crucial. When people are forced to live in crowded, unhealthy environments, the risk of infectious disease, respiratory illness and other health outcomes rises dramatically. Pregnant women, infants, and young children are particularly vulnerable and should limit time outside as much as possible. Secondly, it improves the safety for all road users.
Wildfires in the Prairies
Protect your lungs – ongoing wildfires in the Canadian Prairies have left thousands endangered with compromised air quality. Across the region, these fires have been exacerbated by the ongoing drought in the area. Smoke from these wildfires has drifted eastward, severely impacting the air quality in Montreal and the surrounding areas as well. Our officials are doing everything possible to protect our capital and extinguish these destructive fires, and to heal the damage done by their chaos.
Although firefighting efforts are still ongoing in the affected areas, the severity and enormity of the wildfires continues to pose tremendous challenges. The public is encouraged to continue monitoring fire activity and how it may impact air quality. Your local news sources / local government emergency management reports will help keep you advised not just on the wildfires but on the daily changes in air quality.
Ongoing Weather Alerts
In fact, alongside the air quality crisis, southern Quebec is currently experiencing heat warnings for Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. These early warnings add to the urgency of emerging public health advisories. We advise residents to stay hydrated and find cooler spaces to prevent heat-related illness.
As this story continues to unfold, citizens of Montreal and southern Quebec should remain on guard. They should especially watch for air quality alerts and extreme heat warnings. In the climate crisis, with temperatures rising and ambient air pollution at alarming levels, we all must do our part to support the protection of public health and safety during this unprecedented time.
