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By Liam Verster
Special Air Quality Statement

Dust advisory for Vernon, North Okanagan, extended Monday

Feb 28, 2025 | 3:57 PM

Update Monday, Mar. 3:

Environment Canada extended the dust advisory for Vernon and the North Okanagan Monday, March 3.

The weather agency said high levels of particulate matter was still found in the air locally, and the special weather statement would remain in place until there is precipitation or dust suppression efforts are undertaken.

People who are more susceptible to the dust were advised to limit their times outdoors, especially in areas with higher pollutant levels such as around busy roads or near industrial operations.

— Original Story —

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The federal weather agency has issued a dust advisory for the area.

Environment Canada issued the air quality statement for Vernon and the North Okanagan Friday, Feb. 28, stating the air had high concentrations of coarse particulate matter. It noted levels were higher around busy roads and industrial operations.

The advisory would stay in place until there is precipitation, dust suppression, or a change in traffic patterns.

The weather agency said the air quality could negatively impact people with chronic conditions such as asthma, heart disease and diabetes; people with respiratory infections; pregnant women; children; and older adults.

Symptoms of dust exposure include eye and/or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, and coughing and/or wheezing.

People more at risk of adverse affects from the dust were advised to limit their exposure until dust levels decrease.

by Liam Verster
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