Eastern Fraser Valley under air quality advisory

CHILLIWACK — Smoky skies fueled by a regional fire north of Harrison have contributed to a sudden decline in air quality throughout the Lower Mainland, prompting an advisory from Metro Vancouver.

In a statement issued Wednesday afternoon (June 7), Metro Vancouver Regional District has issued an air quality advisory due to high concentrations of fine particulate matter and ground-level ozone that are expected to last until a change in weather.

Two out-of-control wildfires burning near Harrison Lake are producing considerable smoke that is contributing to degraded air quality and hazy conditions. Hot and sunny weather in combination with local emissions and wildfire smoke has resulted in elevated levels of ground-level ozone. This advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

Smoke concentrations may vary widely across the region as winds, temperatures, and wildfire behaviour changes.

AIR QUALITY ADVISORY IN EFFECT FOR:

• Metro Vancouver – Northeast
• Metro Vancouver – Southeast
• Central Fraser Valley
• Eastern Fraser Valley

Postpone or reduce outdoor physical activity while fine particulate matter and ozone concentrations are high, especially if breathing feels uncomfortable. Exposure is particularly a concern for people with underlying conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) including bronchitis and emphysema, and other lung diseases, heart diseases, and/or diabetes; individuals with respiratory infections; pregnant people; infants and children; older adults; and outdoor workers (e.g., construction and agricultural workers). Individuals who are socially marginalized may also be at higher risk (e.g., people who are homeless or  under housed).

As the summer season approaches with warm temperatures, it is also important to stay cool and hydrated. Indoor spaces with air filtration and air conditioning may offer relief from both air pollution and heat. Consider running a portable HEPA air cleaner in one or more rooms or spending time in public buildings with large indoor spaces and air conditioning (e.g., community centre, library, mall). Consider using a portable air conditioner to keep your indoor space comfortable (if you do not have central air conditioning). Overheating is more dangerous for most people at risk, and both cool and clean air are important.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, seek prompt medical attention. Check in on family, friends and neighbours often. Call 9-1-1 in the case of an emergency.

Information about real-time air quality readings for Metro Vancouver and Fraser Valley communities and potential health impacts can be found at airmap.ca and https://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/readings/find-stations-map.html.