Advisory lifted over elevated dust levels in Vernon

Mar 21, 2024 | 10:00 AM

Some morning rain in the Vernon area Thursday has allowed officials to lift a dust advisory for the city.

The Ministry of Environment and Interior Health ended the health notice that was first issued on March 15, then rescinded two days later, then installed again on March 19 due to elevated levels of dust (particulate matter) caused by winter road traction material.

“Changing meteorological conditions have improved conditions across the region,” Gaelle Gilson, air quality meteorologist, said.

The provincial air quality objective for particulate matter is 50 micrograms per cubic metre averaged over 24 hours.

Vernon’s level was recorded at 37.6 as of 7 a.m. PDT Thursday.

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Real-time air quality observations and information regarding the health effects of air pollution can be found at https://www.gov.bc.ca/airquality.

Advisory issued over rising dust levels in Vernon
March 15, 2024

Dust levels are getting high again in Vernon which has led to the area’s latest dust advisory.

The Ministry of Environment and Interior Health say the increased levels are caused by the stirred-up road traction material, and can cause health issues for some people.

“Exposure is particularly a concern for individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma,COPD, heart disease, and diabetes; respiratory infections such as COVID-19, pregnant women, infants, and older adults. Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections should postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted,” Gaelle Gilson, air quality meteorologist, said.

The advisory will likely continue until there is precipitation or dust suppression in the form of street sweeping, which some municipalities, like Vernon, have started.

Real-time air quality information from Vernon and other B.C. communities can be found at: https://www.gov.bc.ca/airquality.

by Pete McIntyre

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