UPDATE: The Ministry of Environment said Friday the elevated pollution levels are no longer expected or have moved out of the area.
Hot air and sunny days combined with vehicle emissions has led to Environment Canada issuing an air quality advisory for the Metro Vancouver region.
Global News meteorologist Kristi Gordon explains when the emissions interact with sunlight on hot and dry days like Thursday, it can create a high amount of ground level ozone in the air which can cause problems.
The advisory is expected to persist until temperatures cool, which Gordon says might not happen on Friday.
In the meantime, Environment Canada is asking those with respiratory problems to avoid outdoor exposure.
“Avoid strenuous outdoor activities during mid-afternoon, when ozone levels are highest. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have underlying medical conditions such as lung or heart disease and asthma,” reads part of the statement.
The release also suggests staying cool and hydrated.