Metro Vancouver issues air quality warning

Hot temperatures and wildfire smoke have prompted a yellow air quality warning from Metro Vancouver.

The regional district issued the warning Thursday afternoon for residents of the east side of Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Environment Canada has also issued a heat warning for much of the province.

The Brunswick Complex of wildfires near Boston Bar, as well as wildfires in the southern Interior, are being blamed for an increase in smog and fine particulate matter concentrations.

According to the province, air quality warnings are issued when pollution reaches a level that may pose health threats.

A yellow warning means impacts are expected to be moderate, localized, or short‑term.

Metro Vancouver is encouraging people in the affected areas to limit outdoor activity, and reduce activity duration and intensity. They say if you have to be outside, a well-fitted N95, KN95, or KF94 mask offers the best protection.

Indoor air quality can be improved with portable HEPA air cleaners or do-it-yourself box fan air cleaners.

Some people are at higher risk, including those with lung, heart or other chronic conditions, pregnant people, infants, children, older adults, and outdoor workers.

Anyone experiencing wheezing, chest pain, trouble breathing or severe cough is being told to seek medical help.