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Wildfire smoke is so thick in Prince George, it looks like night after the sun has risen

Click to play video: 'Heavy wildfire smoke drifts into Prince George causing dark skies'
Heavy wildfire smoke drifts into Prince George causing dark skies
WATCH: A concerning morning in the Prince George area. The sun is up but you wouldn't know it, heavy smoke from nearby wildfires has made its way into the city. Richard Zussman has the latest – Aug 17, 2018

It is now starting to look a little bit more like daylight in Prince George Friday as the wildfire smoke is clearing slowly.

But the smoke from wildfires was so thick in Prince George earlier Friday morning, it looked like the middle of the night even though the sun had risen.

On the air quality health index scale, Prince George is currently off the charts at a 10+, meaning it is at a very high-risk level.

The city also remains under an Environment Canada smoky skies bulletin.

WATCH: B.C. wildfire smoke darkens Prince George sky

Click to play video: 'Wild fire smoke darkens Prince George sky'
Wild fire smoke darkens Prince George sky

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Drivers were being asked to turn on their headlights and to drive carefully on the highways due to the heavy smoke.

Provincial Health Officer Dr. Bonnie Henry said the smoke is dynamic and changing rapidly, so for the most part officials are not recommending people evacuate specifically because of the smoke.

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She said communities in the central interior have now begun to work on creating clean air centres in places such as libraries and shopping malls, and is advising people to consider moving outdoor activities inside.

People with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, infants, children and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure.

People are advised to stay inside if they have breathing difficulties. Find an indoor place that’s cool and ventilated. Using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help.

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Prince George, taken at 7:30 a.m. Friday. Credit: Tammy Lukoni.
Prince George Friday morning. Credit: Colleen Smith.

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