Air quality advisories issued for Nicola and Okanagan regions

The Nicola Region and the Okanagan Valley have now been placed under a smokey skies bulletin.

The two new special air quality statements, issued by the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, add to the list of regions already experiencing poor air quality.

The South Thompson, Shuswap and North Thompson areas continue to be under special air quality statements, due to wildfire smoke.

“Smoke concentrations will vary widely as winds, fire behaviour and temperatures change,” said a release from Environment Canada and the B.C. Ministry of Environment.

Smoke in the Thompson and Shuswap areas are likely from local fire, but the Okanagan and other areas may be getting smoke from fires south of the border. 

Officials are warning people to avoid strenuous outdoor actives. Infants, the elderly and any people with underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease or diabetes are also told to be cautious when outside.

“Individuals may experience symptoms such as increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk,” read the release.

Officials recommend those affected by the air quality to stay indoors, in air conditioned, and well ventilated areas.

The bulletin will remain in effect until further notice.

For more information on current air quality, see: www.bcairquality.ca.

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