Advisory Issued For Third Time

A dust advisory is back in effect for the Vernon area.

The Ministry of Environment and Interior Health say concentrations of course particulates exceed the provincial air quality objectives.

It could cause health issues for some people.

“Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted,” says a government release. “Staying indoors and in air-conditioned spaces helps to reduce particulate exposure. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease.”

It’s the third time the advisory has been issued this winter, a result of road traction material getting stirred up by vehicles.

The conditions are expected to continue until there is rain or snow.

“The current advisory has been triggered by high concentrations of dust, measured as “PM10” – particles with diameter up to 10 millionth of a metre,” states the release.

“PM10 concentrations are currently above advisory levels. Latest measurements at the Vernon Science Centre station indicate an hourly average of 95 micrograms per cubic metre. The average for the past 24 hours is 68 micrograms per cubic metre, which exceeds the provincial air quality objective of 50 micrograms per cubic metre.”