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Air quality advisory in effect for eastern Fraser Valley due to wildfire smoke

The main causes of the high concentrations of particulate matter are fires near Chilliwack Lake, Hope and in Washington state

Though not the main cause of the air quality advisory, a fire in Minnekhada Regional Park in Coquitlam could contribute to the hazy conditions in the next few days.
Though not the main cause of the air quality advisory, a fire in Minnekhada Regional Park in Coquitlam could contribute to the hazy conditions in the next few days. Photo by Arlen Redekop /PNG

An air quality advisory has been issued for the eastern Fraser Valley due to particulate in the air due to wildfire smoke.

The main cause of the high concentrations of particulate matter in the area is a fire southeast of Chilliwack near Chilliwack Lake, near Hope and in Washington state. The smoke is affecting several municipalities including Agassiz, Chilliwack and Hope.

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Concentrations remain below the threshold for an advisory but the smoky skies are being exacerbated by high humidity and low winds. The Minnekhada Regional Park wildfire in Coquitlam, though now mostly under control, may also be contributing to the haziness.

The stagnant weather is expected to last a few more days and there may not be much improvement in air quality. The degree of smokiness will vary widely depending on where you are in the region.

Fine particulate is defined as airborne solids or liquid droplets with a diameter of 2.5 micrometres or less, making the particles able to easily penetrate indoors.

Anyone experiencing symptoms should avoid or reduce physical activity, especially if breathing is difficult. Those with underlying conditions, children, the elderly and those who work or live outdoors are more susceptible.

More information on dealing with the effects of wildfire smoke is available on the B.C. Centre for Disease Control website. Data on air quality can be found on the B.C. government’s air quality map.