Update: Dust Advisory Ends

Jan 31, 2019 | 9:04 AM

A four day old dust advisory has been lifted for the Vernon area.

The Ministry of Environment says dust levels have been decreasing due to the changing weather, and are currently below advisory levels.

The dust levels are caused by road traction material getting stirred up by vehicles, and can be a health hazard for people with lung or heart disease or diabetes.

More information on current air quality can be found at:https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air.

Water Shut Off Response

Fruit Growers Association call for plan to support farmers amid water shortage

16h ago

42-Unit Project

Fees waived for new supportive housing project in Vernon

17h ago

Investigation underway

One person deceased after fire at North Okanagan farm

20h ago

Jan. 31

A dust advisory remains in effect for a third day in Vernon.

The Ministry of Environment says high concentrations of dust remain in the air, which will continue until there is rain or snow.

Its caused by vehicles stirring up road traction material on roadways, and is an annual issue in the area.

“Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted. Staying indoors and in air-conditioned spaces helps to reduce particulate exposure,” says Graham Veale, Air Quality Meteorologist.

The conditions are a particularly concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease.

Jan. 29

Vernon’s first dust advisory of 2019 has been issued.

The Ministry of Environment and Interior Health say high concentrations of coarse particulates are expected to continue until there is a change in the weather conditions.

The dusty conditions are mainly caused by road traffic stirring up winter traction materials.

People with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted.

“Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease,” says Graham Veale, Air Quality Meteorologist.

More information on current air quality can be found at:https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land

by Corey Fischer