Prince George is among B.C. communities being impacted by wildfire smoke as the workweek begins, Environment Canada reports.
"Most of the province is covered in a blanket of smoky haze today that is remaining aloft (high in the atmosphere). Impacts at ground-level persist close to local fires," the advisory states. "The fine particles in wildfire smoke pose the main health risk. As smoke levels increase, health risks increase."
The special air quality statement was updated Sunday night.
Monday's weather forecast calls for a mix of sun and cloud with a 30 per cent chance of showers in the afternoon and the risk of a thunderstorm. The wind will become southwestat 20 km/h in the afternoon. Expect a high of 27 C, which will feel like 29 C with the humidity, and a UV index of 6 or higher.
The overnight low is expected to be 11 C with cloudy skies Tuesday, a 40 per cent chance of a thunderstorm and a high of 22 C.
Smoke remains in the forecast for the days ahead.
People more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke include seniors, pregnant people, smokers, infants and young children, people who work outdoors, people involved in strenuous outdoor exercise and people with an existing illness or chronic health condition. Those who are more likely to be impacted should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors or seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms, the weather agency recommends.
"Listen to your body and if you experience symptoms, consider reducing or stopping strenuous outdoor activities. Symptoms can include milder and more common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, as well as serious but less common symptoms such as chest pains or severe cough," the advisory states. "If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance. Limit time outdoors. When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible."
- Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke
- Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air purifier that can filter fine particles.
- When spending time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke.
- Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health.
- Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke.
- Take care of your mental health.
- Learn more at canada.ca/wildfire-smoke.
