Toronto briefly held the title of having the worst air quality on the planet on Friday, June 6, as thick wildfire smoke drifted across Ontario. The city’s Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) climbed to 9 in the afternoon—classified as high risk.
Earlier in the day, Toronto ranked as having the second-worst air quality globally, based on data from Swiss monitoring firm IQAir. By 4:15 p.m. local time, the AQHI hit 10, placing it at the top of the global list for poorest air quality.
In response, Environment Canada issued a special air quality advisory for the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), large parts of southern Ontario, and five other provinces. Residents in affected areas were advised to minimize outdoor activity due to the hazardous conditions.
Meteorologist David Phillips from Environment Canada noted the worsening air quality was tied to an increase in wildfires nationwide. Since the beginning of June, at least 15 new out-of-control wildfires have been reported in northern Ontario and Western Canada.
The smoke led not only to serious health concerns but also disrupted daily life in Toronto, with reduced visibility and a noticeable haze hanging over the city. The Lung Health Foundation also warned of the dangers of prolonged smoke exposure, particularly for individuals with asthma or chronic respiratory conditions.
Forecasters expect some relief over the weekend, with air quality anticipated to improve to moderate levels, although fluctuations remain likely.
