Air Quality Warning - Effective July 15, 2026

HAMILTON, ON – An Orange Air Quality Warning has been initiated for the City of Hamilton by Environment and Climate Change Canada and the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks beginning July 15, 2026. 

Environment and Climate Change Canada is reporting an Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) of 10+, When the AQHI is forecasted to reach 10+, Environment and Climate Change Canada issues an Orange Air Quality Warning that stays in effect until it is cancelled. To check the current AQHI value for Hamilton, visit Hamilton, Ontario - Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) - Environment Canada.

Affected Services

Recreation

The following outdoor recreation programs, amenities and activities are closed or cancelled on July 16:

• Supie programs
• Wading pools
• Outdoor pools
• Pier 8 Boat tours
• Pier 8 Trolley tours
• Wild Waterworks will also be closed today due to the poor air quality. 

The following recreation programs and services will be modified July 16:

• Camp Kidaca programs will take place mainly indoors
• Free Fitness at the Park will move indoors
• Additional Open Swims will be offered at indoor pools 
• Music on the Water will proceed at the discretion of the event organizer

Waste Collection

Waste Management has suspended garbage, green bin, yard waste, and bulk waste collection as of midday July 16. At this time, crews are expected to report for Friday routes.

Further Information on Air Quality

Reduce your health risk from poor air quality 

• Limit time outdoors. Stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed. If it is too warm, turn on the air conditioning if possible. If you do not have air conditioning and it is too warm to stay inside with the windows closed, seek out indoor cooling or clean air spaces. 
• Update your air filter. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for using a clean, good-quality air filter in your ventilation system or use a portable air filter.
• Consider purchasing a portable air cleaner. Use a portable air purifier to filter particles in the air.
• Improve indoor air quality. Reduce sources of indoor air pollutants and protect indoor spaces from wildfire smoke getting inside. Learn more at www.canada.ca/air-health.

How wildfire smoke impacts air quality

Wildfire smoke contains fine particles that can be harmful to everyone, particularly young children, seniors, pregnant people, individuals with asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) or heart disease, and people who work outdoors. 

Exposure to wildfire smoke can cause mild symptoms such as headaches, production of mucus, a mild cough, and ear, throat, eye, and sinus irritation. More serious but less common symptoms of smoke exposure include dizziness, wheezing, chest pains, severe cough, asthma attacks, shortness of breath, and heart palpitations (irregular heartbeat). If you experience these symptoms, talk to a health care provider or seek urgent medical attention. 

When a heat warning and air quality warning are in effect at the same time, prioritize keeping cool, because overheating can be more dangerous to your health.

More information can be found at hamilton.ca/AirQuality