Air quality warning issued for Metro Vancouver due to wildfire smoke

The Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD) says it has issued an air quality warning for several areas due to wildfire smoke from the South Cariboo, the Southern Interior, and the Boston Bar wildfire complex.

The yellow warning — issued when there is a high health risk — applies to communities around the region, the district says. A warning issued Tuesday remains in place for the Fraser Valley.

The risk comes due to elevated levels of fine particulate matter in the air from the blazes.

“A southerly flow brought smoke over much of the region yesterday and was mixed down to the ground overnight,” the MVRD said. “Outflow winds continue to bring higher concentrations of wildfire smoke to the eastern Fraser Valley.”

“Areas of southwest Metro Vancouver and near the coast will experience better air quality. Widespread smoke is expected to remain until tomorrow when a stronger onshore flow may bring cleaner air to the region.”

Residents are advised to limit outdoor activity.

The MVRD says the warning is in effect for Vancouver, Burnaby, New Westminster, the North Shore, Richmond, Delta, Tsawwassen, the Tri-Cities, Pitt Meadows, Maple Ridge, Surrey, Langley, White Rock, and the Fraser Valley, including Abbotsford and Mission.

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