Residents in Hamilton and Niagara can expect to see poor air quality again on Thursday as wildfire smoke from northeastern Ontario and Quebec continues to drift into the regions.

Hamilton, Burlington, Milton and Oakville ranked seven out of 10 on Ontario’s air quality health index Wednesday, putting residents at a “high risk.”

The air quality is not going to improve by much on Thursday, even getting worse, as the AQHI is expected to reach nine out of 10.

A special air quality statement issued by Environment Canada continues, and residents are encouraged to take a break from the smoke by finding a place with clean, cool air such as a community centre, shopping mall or library.

Environment Canada has shared a number of recommendations to protect your health and reduce exposure to wildfire smoke.

For residents who must spend time outside, the federal agency suggests wearing a well-fitted respirator mask such as a NIOSH certified N95 or equivalent respirator.

READ MORE: How to protect yourself from poor air quality due to Ontario wildfires

Hamilton, Burlington and St. Catharines issued a city-wide fire ban Wednesday, including properties with approved burn permits.

Norfolk County, Haldimand County and Brant County all joined the burn ban on Thursday, saying fireworks and recreational fires are all included in the ban.

“The County of Brant’s volunteer Firefighters provide lifesaving support in our community, and we ask that residents be considerate of this at this time,” Fire Chief Darren Watson said.

“We are asking everyone to be responsible and use their best judgment while the fire ban is in place.”

Niagara Falls Tourism announced Wednesday that they will be pausing the nightly fireworks presentation due to the impact of the wildfires burning across the country.

Due to the impact of the wildfires burning across the country, and the associated air quality advisories in many areas of Canada, including in Niagara, the Niagara Falls Fireworks program is being paused this evening. Air quality conditions will be reviewed daily moving forward. pic.twitter.com/4ssspQIOH1

— Niagara Parks (@NiagaraParks) June 7, 2023