Quesnel is under another dust advisory today (April 3).
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy and Northern Health issued a Dust Advisory for Quesnel earlier this morning.
The current dusty conditions are caused by road traffic stirring up winter traction materials that have accumulated on roadways over the past winter, according to the advisory.
“High concentrations of dust are expected to persist until there is precipitation or dust suppression,” it states. “Dust concentrations tend to be highest around busy roads and industrial operations. This advisory is in effect until further notice.”
Exposure to dust is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease, according to the Ministry of Environment. People with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise near busy roads until the advisory is lifted.
If you are experiencing symptoms such as continuing eye or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cough or wheezing, follow the advice of your health care provider.
The Provincial Ambient Air Quality Objective for PM10 — particulate matter that is less than 10 microns, which includes dust — is 50 micrograms per cubic metre averaged over 24 hours. The current 24-hour average for Quesnel is 55.9 cubic metres.
Real-time air quality information from Quesnel and other B.C. communities can be found online at https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air.
editor@quesnelobserver.com
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