Environment Canada issues smog alert as forest fires rage

A smoky haze drifted over a massive section of central Canada and deep into the United States Monday due to numerous forest fires in central Quebec.

Winds pushed the smoke southwest from Quebec City Sunday evening into the St. Lawrence Valley and beyond. Fire crews from the northeastern U.S. and across Canada are fighting 52 fires in the province, eight of which are still burning out of control.

Environment Canada issued a smog alert Monday for the greater Montreal area and parts of eastern Ontario. Police said they were inundated with nearly 200 calls to 911 from residents concerned the smoke was the result of fires within the city.

In Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec City, citizens reported the smell of smoke and the presence of heavy clouds.

In the U.S., the National Weather Service reported a strong smell of smoke in the New England states.

Air quality warnings were issued for eastern Ontario and Quebec early Monday morning.

The chief doctor of eastern Ontario told affected residents to keep their doors and windows shut.

Medical Officer of Health Dr. Paul Roumeliotis said smog is a particular health risk for young children, the elderly and those with chronic breathing problems.

Ottawa Public Health warned that wood smoke can irritate the lungs, eyes, nose and throat and can cause coughing, wheezing and difficulty breathing. The agency issued a public service announcement advising residents, especially seniors, children and people with breathing difficulties or heart and lung conditions, to avoid strenuous outdoor activities.