KAWARTHA LAKES-A 50 hectare forest fire is burning out of control East of Bancroft tonight.
The fire was reported at approximately 5:30 pm in the Pembroke Region and according to the Ministry of Natural Resources and Forestry, it is not under control.
A second forest fire is burning uncontrolled near Algonquin Park. it is 18 hectares and began on June 3 just before 4pm.
A smokey haze filled the air from Kawartha Lakes to Peterborough and north to Haliburton. Officials say the smoke is from wildfires burning in Ontario and Quebec. According to The Weather Network over 150 wildfires are burning in Quebec and 48 in Ontario.
Environment Canada issued a Special Air Quality Statement for Kawartha Lakes, Peterborough, Haliburton and Minden areas.
According to officials, smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility. High levels of air pollution have developed due to smoke from forest fires. Smoke plumes from local forest fires as well as forest fires in Quebec have resulted in deteriorated air quality.
Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour.
“Wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low concentrations. Everyone can take action to reduce their exposure to wildfire smoke.” said Environment Canada
