Canadian wildfire smoke prompts RI Air Quality Alert Tuesday, Wednesday

PROVIDENCE, R.I. (WLNE) — The Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management issued an Air Quality Alert for Tuesday and another for Wednesday.

A significant amount of smoke is making its way to Southern New England from Canada.

A massive wildfire broke out in Canada’s Atlantic Coast last week, forcing at least 16,000 people out of their homes.

So far, over 150 homes have been destroyed.

The smoke will have the heaviest impact over Rhode Island on Tuesday morning.

Rhode Island’s Department of Environmental Management urged those with respiratory health risks to stay indoors until the alert is lifted.

People may smell burning wood and notice hazy skies.

The Department of Environmental Management advises those with medical conditions that may be affected by poor air quality to stay inside. Those who need to leave home should wear a mask.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.