An air quality advisory has been cancelled for the eastern Fraser Valley, but remains in effect for the central Fraser Valley due to particulate matter in the air coming from wildfires in Washington state.
“Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted,” read a statement from Metro Vancouver.
“Staying indoors and in air conditioned spaces helps to reduce fine particulate exposure. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease.”
Environment Canada has issued an air quality alert for the Okanagan, southern interior and Kootenay regions, warning there are high levels of fine particulate matter in the air and cautioning people to avoid strenuous activity outdoors.
The advisories come after smoke drifted into southern British Columbia from raging wildfires in Washington state.
Kevin Skrepnek of the B.C. Wildfire Service said, “southerly winds are bringing a substantial amount of smoke up from the States. There could be a bit of local smoke in there, but the majority is from south of the border.”
Other parts of B.C. are also experiencing hazy skies, including the Okanagan where winds, combined with a temperature inversion, have trapped smoke in the valley.
-With files from Canadian Press, Justin McElroy and Kimberly Davidson
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