Air quality advisory issued for Kamloops

A high concentration of fine particulate matter in the air in Kamloops has triggered an air quality advisory.

It was issued today, March 15, jointly by the B.C. Ministry of Environment and the Interior Health Authority.

It’s being triggered by smoke from wood burning stoves along with emissions from industry, vehicle and rail traffic, the advisory says.

“Exposure is particularly a concern for individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes; respiratory infections such as COVID-19, pregnant women, infants and older adults,” the advisory reads.

“Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections should postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted.”

Fine particulate matter are tiny airborne solid or liquid droplets that tend to be in higher concentrations around busy roads, industrial operations and neighbourhoods with home wood stoves, the ministry says. It can easily penetrate indoors.

People can minimize their exposure by avoiding heavy traffic areas, limiting strenuous outdoor activity and running air cleaners indoors.

The advisory is to remain in place until the weather changes.

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