Smoke from wildfires in Manitoba, a Western province facing its worst fire season in 30 years, has created hazardous air quality conditions across Eastern Canada and the United States.

Environment Canada urges residents to limit their time outdoors. But even when inside, most buildings can only reduce airborne pollutants by half.

Much of Central Canada, Manitoba and Saskatchewan were placed under special air quality statements or warnings on Monday due to smoke from wildfires, as Environment Canada advised residents to limit time outdoors and watch for smoke exposure symptoms.