People across parts of British Columbia are being warned about poor air quality as thick smoke from wildfires fills the sky. Many communities in the province are experiencing hazy conditions, prompting a fresh health advisory from officials.
The Ministry of Environment issued a special air quality warning on August 4. The alert covers a wide area and is expected to last through the next 24 to 48 hours. Experts say the smoke can change quickly depending on wind and fire activity.
Regions under the warning include the entire Okanagan Valley, Kamloops, the southern part of Cariboo (including Williams Lake), and Fraser Canyon (including Lytton). Vancouver Island’s east coast, including areas from Nanoose Bay to Fanny Bay and the city of Nanaimo, are also affected.
Officials are urging residents to stay indoors when possible, especially people who are more sensitive to air pollution. This includes children, the elderly, and those with heart or lung conditions.
Breathing in wildfire smoke can cause a range of symptoms. These include coughing, sore throat, headaches, and shortness of breath. People with asthma or other breathing problems may see their symptoms get worse.
Even healthy individuals may feel irritation after being outdoors for long periods. Health experts are asking people to reduce outdoor activities if they notice smoke in their area. If you feel unwell, it’s best to stay inside and close windows and doors.
Portable air cleaners or HEPA filters can help keep indoor air cleaner. Using air conditioning in recirculation mode can also reduce the amount of smoke that enters your home. If you don’t have access to filtered air, consider going to public spaces like libraries or shopping malls.
Wildfire smoke does not move in the same way everywhere. Some areas may experience heavy smoke, while nearby communities might have clearer skies. This is due to wind patterns and the size of the fires.
“During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour,” the ministry explained in its statement.
Because of this, the warning may be updated often. People are advised to stay informed through weather and air quality websites. Local radio stations may also provide updates.
The warning comes as firefighters continue to battle multiple wildfires across the province. Hot weather, dry conditions, and strong winds have made it difficult to contain the flames. Officials say the fire season has been more active than usual, with dozens of fires burning in different areas.
Smoke from these fires is now spreading across long distances, even reaching places that are not close to the actual fires. In some cases, smoke from other provinces or the United States may add to the problem.
Emergency services are on alert, and crews are working to manage both the fires and the public health risks caused by the smoke.
If you must be outside, consider wearing a mask that can filter fine particles. Cloth or surgical masks offer limited protection. A properly fitted N95 mask is more effective.
People who feel dizzy, have trouble breathing, or notice chest pain should seek medical help right away.
