Environment Canada has today (July 19) issued an air quality alert for Cranbrook, Kimberley and South Country areas of the East Kootenay and Ktunaxa Nation.

The rest of the region is also experiencing local smoke.

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

A big hunk of B.C. is covered is expected to be impacted or are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke over the next 24-48 hours: Fort Nelson;  B.C. Peace River; Fraser Canyon; South Thompson; Kootenay Lake; East Kootenay.

“Smoke will move south through the Peace region during the day. Changing winds in the south will bring variable smoke that will change though the day and by local area as wind direction changes,” Environment Canada stated.

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.

Follow all emergency announcements relevant to your location.

The next update will be available on July 20 and made available on the Province’s Air Quality Warnings webpage.

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.

Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada. Issued by Environment Canada and the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks.

Lead image: The Columbia Valley was choked in smoke Saturday, July 18. Ian Cobb/e-KNOW photo

e-KNOW

Article Share