Environment Canada has again today issued an air quality alert for the southern half of the East Kootenay, including Cranbrook, Kimberley and South Country areas.

There is also a heat warning for the Creston/Kootenay Lake area.

“Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility,” Environment Canada stated.

“Smoke is predicted to move into the Kootenay region from the south during the day. Smoke is predicted to continue to move south and west from the Peace region through the day.

During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour.

Monitor the situation for any wildfires near your area at EmergencyInfoBC.

Exposure to smoke can affect your health. Postpone or reduce strenuous outdoor activities until the warning has ended. Spend time indoors in a space with cleaner air.

Some people are more likely to be negatively impacted by smoke. This includes people with lung and heart conditions, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, people aged 65 and older, and anyone whose health is affected by a chronic condition or acute illness.

Visit airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values.

Humidex values reaching 31 are expected for the next two days in the Creston/Kootenay Lake area.

Temperature are high and there is a risk to public health during this period of elevated temperatures from Wednesday to Thursday in the West Columbia and Arrow, Slocan and Kootenay Lakes regions.

A ridge of high pressure will bring elevated temperature to the region. Daytime highs are expected to be in the low to mid 30s with overnight lows in the mid to high teens. Warm temperatures may persist until Friday, followed by a cooling trend, Environment Canada said.

e-KNOW file photo

e-KNOW

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