Smoky skies persist in South Okanagan

Environment Canada continues to warn South Okanagan residents about wildfire smoke today.

A special weather statement was continued this morning, Aug. 20, and rainfall in the province is expected to reduce the smoke levels this evening.

Exposure to wildfire smoke can impact a person’s health.

"People with pre-existing health conditions, respiratory infections such as COVID-19, older adults, pregnant women and infants, children, and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure," according to Environment Canada.

READ MORE: High winds to complicate South Okanagan firefighting efforts? Pick your favourite forecast

In smoky conditions:

• Reduce your activity level if you feel unwell
• Stay cool and drink fluids
• Carry fast-reacting medications if you have asthma or other chronic illnesses

BreezoMeter, an online tool used to rate air quality, uses a scale from 1-100, with 100 being the best air quality. The Okanagan and Kamloops is sitting between 70 and 80, as of 1 p.m. Aug. 20.

On Wednesday afternoon, the Christie Mountain wildfire prompted a smoky sky bulletin for Penticton, Summerland, Naramata, Keremeos, Oliver and Osoyoos. The wildfire is currently 2,000 hectares in size.

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