Environment Canada September 11 issued a Smoky Skies Bulletin covering the entire East Kootenay as wildfire smoke from the growing catastrophe along the US West Coast continues to get pushed north, mixing with the smoke generated from the Doctor Creek wildfire, 25 km southwest of Canal Flats.

Many regions of B.C. are being impacted or are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke over the next 24 to 72 hours.

“The bulletin has been extended to include more regions over the weekend. Smoke impacts due to long-range transport from wildfires in the western United States have already been observed in some areas of Vancouver Island, the Lower Mainland, and portions of the Interior. Smoke forecast models indicate the potential for a significant push of smoke into B.C. throughout the weekend,” Environment Canada stated.

“The anticipated smoke trajectory indicates that the areas impacted will grow to the north and east as the weekend progresses with the most widespread impacts expected on Sunday. With falling temperatures overnight, temperature inversions in mountain valleys can increase the likelihood of smoke being trapped near the ground. Localized impacts from the Talbott Creek, Woodbury Creek, and Doctor Creek fires continue to be expected.”

It is today being reported that California, Oregon, Washington and parts of B.C.’s Lower Mainland currently have the worst air quality in the world.

If you or those in your care are exposed to wildfire smoke, consider taking extra precautions to reduce your exposure. Wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gasses which includes many chemicals that can harm your health.

For more details, please consult this site.

The Doctor Creek wildfire is today estimated at 8,050 hectares and remains out of control.

Lead image: Mount Baker is barely visible from Cranbrook this morning (Sept. 12). Ian Cobb/e-KNOW photo

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