What is the email air quality alert system?
The email air quality alert system is a notification service that provides advanced warning of a Special Air Quality Statement or Smog and Air Health Advisory.
By subscribing to the service, there are three kinds of notifications that you can expect to receive by email.
- Special Air Quality Statement (SAQS): When the Air Quality Health Index is forecast to reach, or has reached, the high risk category for one to two hours, a SAQS will be issued. A SAQS will also be issued if the Air Quality Health Index has not reached the high risk category, however there is an air quality concern for a particular area that is expected to last for at least three hours. The purpose of a SAQS is to be precautionary and to be vigilant of your health.
- Smog and Air Health Advisory (SAHA): For situations where the Air Quality Health Index is forecast to reach, or has reached, the high risk category, and is expected to last for at least three hours, a SAHA will be issued.
- Termination Notice: A termination notice is issued once the Smog and Air Health Advisory has ended.
Both Special Air Quality Statements and Smog and Air Health Advisories are issued jointly by Environment Canada and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.
Air quality alert notification is provided all year round with the majority of alerts being issued during the May to September period depending on the weather conditions.
