Smoke from wildfires continues to significantly reduce local air quality.Locations: Avalon Peninsula North and St. John's and vicinity.Short range wind forecast: south 30 gusting to 50 km/h today, then southwest 20 gusting to 40 km/h tonight.Remarks: Smoke from wildfires in Conception Bay North and in the Paddy's Pond area will significantly reduce air quality downwind of these fires. Smoke conditions will vary locally as wind and fire behaviour changes.A cold front is expected to bring cloudy skies and showers to the Avalon Peninsula on Friday, which may allow conditions to improve. With the passage of the front, winds will shift to a northerly direction for Friday night and Saturday.People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should avoid strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.###During heavy smoke conditions, everyone’s health is at risk regardless of their age or health status.Limit time outdoors. Reschedule or cancel outdoor sports, activities and events.You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.Visit http://www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.