Smoke and Heat Arrive Together as Twin Weather Warnings Blanket the Bow Valley

The Bow Valley is entering a challenging stretch of summer weather, with wildfire smoke reducing air quality at the same time a heat warning pushes daytime temperatures into the 30s.

Environment Canada issued yellow air quality advisories Thursday afternoon for Banff and the Canmore area as wildfire smoke drifted into the Bow Valley. A yellow alert means hazardous weather could cause health impacts or disruption, but those effects are expected to be moderate, localized or relatively short-lived.

At the same time, a heat warning remained in effect for the region.

Health officials recommend keeping windows and doors closed during periods of heavy smoke, but during extreme heat they also emphasize the need to stay cool, even if that means seeking out an air-conditioned public space.

The smoke now hanging over the Bow Valley is being carried in from active wildfires burning in southern British Columbia and northern Washington state. Environment Canada says conditions are expected to improve for most areas by Friday, though smoke concentrations and visibility can change rapidly from hour to hour depending on shifting winds.

While the advisory represents the lowest level of weather alert, health officials stress that wildfire smoke can still pose risks, particularly as concentrations increase. Smoke affects people differently, and even healthy individuals may experience symptoms after prolonged exposure.

For most people, the first signs are relatively mild, including irritated eyes, a scratchy throat, headaches or a persistent cough. More serious symptoms, such as wheezing, chest pain or severe coughing, are less common but require immediate medical attention.

The heat warning adds another layer of concern.

Environment Canada expects daytime highs in the low 30s through the weekend, with overnight temperatures remaining in the teens, offering little opportunity for buildings or the human body to cool down overnight. Warm conditions are forecast to continue into next week.

Health officials are advising people to shift outdoor activities to the cooler morning or evening hours, drink plenty of water, take frequent breaks in air-conditioned spaces and never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.

The Town of Canmore said Thursday that residents needing relief from either the smoke or the heat can use Elevation Place and the Canmore Recreation Centre as clean air centres during regular operating hours. The town is also encouraging residents to check on neighbours, particularly seniors or others who may be more vulnerable during extended periods of poor air quality and high temperatures.