Smoky skies advisory issued for South Okanagan, Similkameen

People in the South Okanagan and Similkameen can expect smoky skies again today.

The special air quality statement was issued today, Sept. 7, due to smoke from local wildfires, as well as fires burning in Washington and Idaho, according to Environment Canada and B.C.’s Ministry of Environment.

The advisory also applies to the East Kootenay, Elk Valley and Kootenay Lake to the east, Fraser Canyon to the west, and Revelstoke to the north.

READ MORE: Crews keep close watch on Manning Park wildfire in southern Interior

The smoky skies are expected to last 24 hours.

Wearing a mask is not recommended to protect your health during a smoky skies advisory, the government says. It’s best to be somewhere air conditioned.

For the latest on the special air quality statement check out Environment Canada's public weather alert web page here.

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