Dust Advisory Number Five

By Corey Fischer

Apr 2, 2019 | 10:56 AM

Another dust advisory has been issued for Vernon, but this one likely won’t be in effect for long.

The advisory warns of increased dust levels in the air due to winter traction material on the roads being stirred up by vehicles.

Air quality meteorologist Graham Veale says the expected rain starting overnight and continue Wednesday will likely reduce the dust levels and end the need for the advisory which is the fifth one issued for Vernon this year.

“The advisory has been triggered by high concentrations of dust, measured as “PM10” – particles with diameter up to 10 millionth of a metre,” says Veale.

“PM10 concentrations are currently above advisory levels. Latest measurements at the Vernon Science Centre (around 9 am) indicate an hourly average of 190 micrograms per cubic metre. The average for the past 24 hours is 87 micrograms per cubic metre, which exceeds the provincial air quality objective of 50 micrograms per cubic metre.”

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Veale says people 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. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease,” says Veale.

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

by Corey Fischer