A special air quality statement is in effect for Prince George and several surrounding regions as wildfire smoke continues to degrade visibility and pose health risks.
Environment Canada and the BC Ministry of Environment and Parks issued the alert late Saturday morning, warning that smoke is either currently affecting or expected to impact areas including, in addition to Prince George, Fort Nelson, the Peace River district, Williston, McGregor, Stuart–Nechako, and the Bulkley Valley and Lakes District over the next 24 to 48 hours.
"Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility," the agencies said in the statement, cautioning that conditions can change quickly and vary widely across short distances and even hour-to-hour.
Residents are urged to limit time outdoors, especially those most vulnerable to air pollution—such as seniors, pregnant people, young children, those with chronic illnesses, and individuals who work outside. Health officials recommend rescheduling or reducing strenuous outdoor activities and seeking medical attention if symptoms arise.
The public is advised to monitor local air quality at gov.bc.ca/air and check EmergencyInfoBC for updates on wildfire activity. The next air quality update is expected later Saturday.
As of noon Saturday, conditions at Prince George Airport were sunny with a temperature of 18.7 C, humidity at 41 per cent, and northwest winds gusting up to 33 km/h. Visibility was 16 kilometres, though officials warn it could deteriorate due to smoke.
Local Forecast
Saturday, June 21
Mainly sunny with local smoke. Winds northwest at 20 km/h, gusting to 40. High of 21 C. UV index 6 or high.
Tonight: Clear early, then partly cloudy with a 30 per cent chance of showers overnight. Smoke remains in the area. Low of 9 C.
Sunday, June 22
Mix of sun and cloud with a 30 per cent chance of showers and a risk of afternoon thunderstorms. Local smoke. High of 23 C.
Night: Cloudy periods with a 30 per cent chance of showers. Low of 8 C.
Monday, June 23
Cloudy. High of 20 C.
Night: Cloudy periods. Low of 9 C.
Tuesday, June 24
Sunny. High of 20 C.
Night: Cloudy periods. Low of 10 C.
Wednesday, June 25
Sunny. High of 20 C.
Night: Cloudy periods with a 40 per cent chance of showers. Low of 10 C.
Thursday, June 26
A mix of sun and cloud with a 40 per cent chance of showers. High of 21 C.
Night: 40 per cent chance of showers. Low of 10 C.
Friday, June 27
Mix of sun and cloud with a 30 per cent chance of showers. High of 22 C.
The average high for this time of year in Prince George is 20 C, with a typical low of 8 C.
