The North Bay area is under two weather related advisories.

First, a special air quality statement has been issued.

It says smoke is causing poor air quality and reducing visibility.

Smoke is expected or occurring.

We may experience possible high levels of air pollution due to smoke from forest fires over the next few days.

Smoke plumes are over parts of the region from forest fires in the vicinity of Key River.

That’s the Parry Sound 33 fire.

Air quality may deteriorate if the smoke descends to ground level.

Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath.

Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

Visit www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk

Meantime, we are also under a severe thunderstorm watch.

Environment Canada says conditions are favourable for the development of severe thunderstorms that may be capable of producing strong wind gusts, large hail and heavy rain.

Thunderstorms are expected to develop this afternoon ahead of a cold front.

Filed under: air quality, thunderstorm watch