Orange-level smoke warning issued for Norman Wells, Tulita

Environment Canada has issued an orange-level warning for Norman Wells and Tulita as smoke from nearby wildfires affects air quality.

Multiple fires are burning in the area, including VQ001 and VQ002 to the west and southwest of Norman Wells.

Smoke from those fires is causing “very poor air quality and reduced visibility,” Environment Canada stated late on Tuesday.

Orange is the second-highest threat level in the federal agency’s recently introduced colour-coded system. It’s above yellow and below red.

Smoke forecasts suggest poor air quality could be an issue in Norman Wells throughout Wednesday and Thursday before the air temporarily clears.

“Conditions are expected to be poorest from evenings through morning hours, and may improve from late morning through the afternoons,” Environment Canada stated.