Dust up: Air quality advisory issued for Vernon

Feb 9, 2024 | 10:05 AM

Vernon’s first dust advisory of 2024 has been issued.

The Ministry of Environment and Interior Health issued the advisory Friday morning due to “high concentrations of coarse particulate matter that are expected to persist until there is precipitation, dust suppression or a change in traffic patterns.”

“Levels tend to be highest around busy roads and industrial operations,” the ministry said.

The advisory is in effect until further notice.

Exposure to the dust can cause health issues for people with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes; respiratory infections such as COVID-19, pregnant women, infants, and older adults.

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People with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections are advised to postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted.

Anyone experiencing symptoms such as continuing eye or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cough or wheezing, should follow the advice of their health care provider.

Sources of the dust particles, known as PM10, include road dust from the winter traction material along road surfaces.

“PM10 can easily penetrate indoors because of their small size,” the ministry advised.

For more information on current air quality, visit gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air.

by Pete McIntyre

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