Stock photo from Interior Health

By Liam Verster

Special Weather Statement

Smoky Skies Bulletin expanded to cover entire Okanagan

Aug 8, 2024 | 1:59 PM

The wildfire smoke has caused the Okanagan’s air quality to deteriorate.

Environment Canada expanded the Smoky Skies Bulletin to cover the entire Okanagan Valley Thursday, August 8, building off the special weather statement issued just for Vernon Wednesday.

The bulletin said particulate matter from wildfire smoke was impacting the air quality, noting that seniors, pregnant women, people who smoke, people who work or do strenuous activities outdoors, children, and people with pre-existing conditions are the most susceptible to effects from the smoke.

People are advised to limit their time outdoors, to check in on those most at risk, and to have good ventilation and use air purifiers when indoors.

The smoke should linger for 24 to 48 hours, unless the wind pattern changes or rain falls in the valley.

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Environment Canada said Thursday that the Air Quality Health Index for Vernon was at Level 3, the highest end of the Low Risk rating, while Kelowna’s air was at Level 2.

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