Wildfire smoke sweeping across the prairies is expected to cause ‘extremely poor’ air quality in parts of central and southern Manitoba including Winnipeg Wednesday. In a special air quality statement, Environment Canada and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) said a cold front in Manitoba is bringing smoke from wildfires in northern Saskatchewan. The smoke is expected to hit the Red River Valley around noon today, causing ‘extremely poor air quality and reduced visibility.’ “Air quality and visibility due to wildfire smoke can fluctuate over short distances and can vary considerably from hour to hour,” the statement reads. “That being said, as the front carrying the plume of smoke initially approaches, expect conditions to swiftly deteriorate.” Neil Johnston, president and CEO of the Manitoba Lung Association, said for those living with lung health issues this smoky weather is a major concern. He said even for healthy people, prolonged exposure can have an impact.