Air quality advisory for Fraser Valley, eastern part of Metro Vancouver

VANCOUVER (NEWS 1130) – An air quality advisory has been issued for the Fraser Valley and eastern part of Metro Vancouver this weekend.

The Metro Vancouver regional district says high concentrations of ground-level ozone is expected due to the hot and sunny weather.

Wildfire smoke from the B.C. Interior and Washington state may make things even worse, with the regional district noting smoke may reach parts of the South Coast on Saturday and linger until Sunday.

“A change in the weather on Monday is forecast to bring onshore winds to help clear the smoke. Smoke concentrations may vary widely across the region as winds and temperatures change, and as wildfire behaviour changes,” reads a statement from district.

.@MetroVancouver is issuing an Air Quality advisory for eastern Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley Regional District because of high concentrations of ground-level ozone that are expected to persist for the next couple of days during the hot and sunny weather. @NEWS1130

— Sonia Aslam (@SoniaSAslam) July 30, 2021

Air Quality Planner Geoff Doerksen with Metro Vancouver says as temperatures heat up, vehicle exhaust and other chemicals already in our air makes the phenomenon worse.

“They certainly do affect parts of eastern Metro Vancouver, as well as the Fraser Valley more than [areas] in the west. That’s mainly due to the emissions, as well as the weather patterns,” he explained.

“The highest levels are generally observed in the mid-afternoon and early evening,” Doerksen added.

You’re advised to avoid strenuous activity during those hours, especially if you feel discomfort breathing.

Dr. Benn Biagtan with the BC Lung Association says anyone with existing conditions like asthma, as well as children and seniors, should be cautious when heading out in poor air quality.

“For parents with children with asthma and other people with asthma, [they should] make sure they have their medications,” she said, adding they could also ask their doctor about increasing the dosage.

If you experience symptoms like shortness of breath or wheezing, you should see a doctor right away and call 9-1-1 if it’s an emergency.

Related articles:

• Smoke on the way for B.C.’s South Coast this weekend

• B.C. heat wave: Ferries customers reminded to take extra care while waiting at terminals

• B.C. looking at long-term heat wave responses as high temperatures return

Biagtan notes the best way to protect yourself from poor air quality is to remain indoors when possible.

Lung experts tell us ground-level ozone can be particularly troublesome for people who have existing problems, such as asthma.

You’re urged to reduce exposure to poor air quality and consider getting a portable HEPA air filter for your home. You can also go to a community centre or library, which would have cleaner, cooler indoor air.

The province also advises you take it easy on smoky days.

“The harder a person breathes, the more smoke they inhale. As with hot weather, drinking plenty of cool water can help reduce inflammation and help a person cope with heat and smoke,” reads a statement from the province.