Ottawa and the wider area will be experiencing poor air quality due to smoke from forest fires this weekend, Environment Canada says.

The special weather statement was issued at 10:48 a.m. Saturday. 

The agency’s weather forecast says the city may see smoke arrive Saturday afternoon and it could last until early Sunday afternoon.

The latest air quality statement comes as the city is set to host its first Ironman triathlon Sunday, with hundreds of racers expected to participate.

For the latest conditions and the map of affected areas, click here.

The weather agency adds that smoke may persist for much of the weekend for parts of southern Ontario.

The smoke may pose health risks, Environment Canada said, advising people in affected areas to limit time outdoors and to consider rescheduling outdoor activities. 

Ottawa was placed under another air quality advisory earlier this week.