PHOTOS: Thick wildfire smoke engulfs Alberta, alarming air quality readings
Shift in wind patterns worsened already dire fire conditions, leading to alarming air quality readings not only in Calgary but across Alberta
Alberta's air quality has reached frightening levels as the smoke from dangerous wildfires engulfs the province, posing significant risks to public health and safety.
MUST SEE: Alberta air quality among worst in the world due to wildfire smoke
Blame a shift in wind patterns, which worsened already dire fire conditions in May, leading to alarming air quality readings not only in Calgary, but also across the entire province.
Multiple sources, including World Air Quality Index and IQAir, have reported that the province's air quality ranked among the worst in the world on various occasions throughout Tuesday. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) also issued special air quality statements covering large parts of Alberta in response to the hazardous conditions.
On Wednesday, the province is expected to experience a concentration of low-level smoke as the northerly winds drive the smoke down Highway 2.
Visit The Weather Network's wildfire hub to keep up with the latest on the active start to wildfire season across Western Canada.
WATCH: Does breathing in wildfire smoke mean lung issues for life?
Photos and videos shared through social platforms capture the intensity of the smoke in Alberta.
