Calgary hits 33 C, breaks 21-year-old record as smoke affects air quality

Calgary broke a 21-year-old record by hitting 33 C on Wednesday afternoon, but smoke from B.C. wildfires has affected the air quality.

"Calgary International Airport hit 33 C today," meteorologist Tim Gaines told The Homestretch.

"The old record (in 1996) was 32.4 C, so yes, it's been broken."

The heat and smoke have the agency issuing warnings, recommending the rescheduling of outdoor activities, drinking lots of water and keeping pets and people out of hot cars.

"Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk," Environment Canada said in a special air quality statement posted after 4 p.m.

"People with lung diseases, such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, can be particularly sensitive to air pollution. They will generally experience more serious health effects at lower levels. Pollution can aggravate their diseases, leading to increased medication use, doctor and emergency room visits, and hospital visits."

The air quality is expected to get worse early Thursday morning.

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With files from The Homestretch