Special air quality statement issued for Metro Vancouver

Special air quality statement is in effect for Metro Vancouver with elevated pollution levels expected or occurring.

Metro Vancouver is continuing an Air Quality Advisory that was issued on October 14 for Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley because of high concentrations of fine particulate matter, primarily due to smoke from wildfires burning in BC and Washington.

Wildfires burning southeast of Chilliwack (near Chilliwack Lake), near Hope, near Harrison Lake, and in Washington are some of the fires that continue to produce smoke that is impacting the region.

Smoke concentrations may vary widely across the region as winds and temperatures change, and as wildfire behaviour changes. Eastern parts of the Fraser Valley that are closer to many of the wildfires may experience greater smoke impacts compared to western parts of Metro Vancouver.

Smoke concentrations may vary widely across the region as winds and temperatures change, and as wildfire behaviour changes. Stagnant weather conditions are forecast to persist for at least the next few days and it is expected that air quality may not change until there is a more significant change in the weather.

Fine particulate matter, also known as PM2.5, refers to airborne solid or liquid droplets with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less. PM2.5 can easily penetrate indoors because of its small size.

Postpone or reduce outdoor physical activity while PM2.5 concentrations are high, especially if breathing feels uncomfortable. Exposure to PM2.5 is particularly a concern for people with underlying conditions such as lung disease, heart disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma and/or diabetes; individuals with respiratory infections; pregnant women and infants; children; older adults; and outdoor workers (e.g. construction and agricultural workers). Individuals who are socially marginalized may also be at elevated risk (e.g. people who are experiencing homelessness or are underhoused).

If you are experiencing symptoms such as chest discomfort, shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, seek prompt medical attention. Call 911 in the case of an emergency.