As of Tuesday, August 21st, Metro Vancouver skies appear to have visibly cleared; however, the air quality isn’t expected to continue improving.
In fact, predications indicate that it may actually worsen, as smoke from over 600 wildfires blow into the region.
And, while Environment Canada has reduced the level of risk on the Health Index, it still reports that Metro Vancouver’s air is at a level 9, or High risk.
Yesterday the level was 10+, or Very High Risk. So, while that is a significant improvement, it still poses a number of issues to the public. For one, sensitive groups are advised to reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors. In addition, children and the elderly should also take it easy.
As for the rest of the public, they should consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if they experience symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
RELATED: BC Has The Worst Air Quality In North America Right Now
Metro Vancouver Air Quality Index
Elevated levels of fine particulate matter are expected to persist until there is a change in fire or weather conditions.
Smoke concentrations may vary widely across the region as winds and temperatures change, and as wildfire behaviour changes.
While the wind may clear smoke from the local atmosphere, it may also bring it in. That’s because wildfires have spread across the West Coast. Specifically, British Columbia, Washington, Oregon, and California are all ablaze. As a result, BC may have sultry skies well into September, depending on future conditions.
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