It’s another day of very poor air quality in the Cariboo Thursday due to wildfires burning in the northwest.
Environment Canada has issued a smoky skies bulletin for Quesnel, Williams Lake and 100 Mile House, warning that people with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, infants, children and sensitive individuals are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure.
The air quality is rated at 10-plus — or very high risk — meaning the general population should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors, especially if you experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation. The at-risk population, children and seniors should avoid outdoor physical exertion all-together.
Read More: Air quality in Williams Lake once again reaches high-risk levels
DriveBC is also warning motorists of limited visibility on local highways.
Environment Canada said there is a weather pattern change underway, however, communities downwind of the major fires will continue to be impacted.
“An approaching trough of low pressure is shifting winds to a westerly direction along the coast. Coastal communities will see a gradual improvement in air quality beginning today as Pacific air moves onshore. While the trough will deliver enhanced mixing of the atmosphere and even a chance of showers, the forecast rainfall amounts will do little to abate the current wildfires. Communities downwind of wildfires will continue to experience high concentrations of fine particulate matter and poor air quality for the foreseeable future,” stated the alert for the Cariboo.
Read More: Shuswap Youth Soccer cancels Shore’N’Score tournament due to smoke
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