Update
Both the air quality and dust advisory for Quesnel ended Sunday (March 24).
The 24-hour average for fine particular concentrations dropped to 15.5 micrograms per cubic metre, which is below the provincial objective of 25.
For dust concentrations, the 24-hour average for Quesnel came down to 30.3 micrograms per cubic metre, below the provincial objective of 50.
“Changing meteorological conditions have improved conditions across the region,” according to the Ministry of Environment.
Original story
Quesnel is under two air quality advisories today (Wednesday, March 20), as both dust (PM10) and fine particulate (PM2.5) concentrations are above advisory levels.
Ralph Adams, an air quality meteorologist with the provincial Ministry of Environment, says it is unusual to have both advisories occur at once.
“Usually, fine particulate advisories occur during winter when period of poor dispersion trap fine particulate under inversions,” he said in an email. “Dust advisories usually occur in spring when road traction material dries out and dust is entrained by passing vehicles.”
The dust advisory has been in place for Quesnel since March 18. It remains in effect due to high concentrations of fine particulate matter that are expected to persist until weather conditions change.
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, which also notes that calm winds are likely to keep the dust concentrations elevated until weather conditions change.
The Provincial Ambient Air Quality Objective for dust, or PM10, is 50 micrograms per cubic metre, averaged over 24 hours, and the current 24-hour average PM10 concentrations for Quesnel is almost three times that at 148.6.
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.
In terms of the fine particulate matter, PM2.5 is particulate matter that measures 2.5 microns and less, and sources include combustion of fossil fuels and wood (motor vehicles, wood stoves and fireplaces), industrial activity, garbage incineration, and agricultural burning. PM2.5 can travel deep into the lungs and become lodged there, causing heart and lung disease and premature death, according to the Ministry of Environment’s website.
According to the Ministry of Environment, PM2.5 concentrations in Quesnel are likely to remain elevated until weather conditions change. Highest concentrations will occur during the evening and early morning hours. This advisory remains in effect until further notice.
The provincial objective for PM2.5 is 25 micrograms per cubic metre, averaged over 24 hours. The 24-hour average for Quesnel is 29.
Exposure to fine particulate matter is of particular concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease. People with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise 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.
Staying indoors helps to reduce exposure to fine particulate matter.
Real-time air quality observations and information regarding the health effects of air pollution can be found at online at bcairquality.ca.
editor@quesnelobserver.com
Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter