An air quality advisory has been issued for the Lower Mainland as smoke from wildfires currently burning in BC and across the border blanket the region.
The advisory, issued by the Metro Vancouver Regional District, covers Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley.
“Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley are experiencing hazy conditions due to wildfire smoke,” states the advisory. “Wildfires contributing smoke to the region include those just east of Hope, near Whistler, and a large complex of fires in the Cariboo region, in addition to fires in the US.”
As of 4:35pm Wednesday afternoon, the city’s air quality is considered “moderate” and the PM2.5 concentration is currently 4.6 times the WHO annual air quality guideline value. Vancouver’s air quality was actually rated the worst in the world earlier in the day, but has since improved.
Officials say air quality may vary widely across the region as winds, temperatures, and wildfire behaviour changes.
Metro Vancouver is also warning people to limit their time outdoors and reschedule activities. Exposure to the smoke could cause eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches, and mild coughing. More serious symptoms include wheezing or chest pain.
“People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms,” states Metro Vancouver.
When staying inside, make sure windows and doors are closed as much as possible, and use an air filter. If you need to go outside for any reason, a well-fitted and properly worn N95 mask can “reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke”.
The current air quality advisory is expected to last “for a few days or until there is a change in weather”.