Despite some long-weekend rainfall, a special air quality statement remains in effect for Prince George.
A smoky skies bulletin, which is a special type of public advisory to communicate the rapidly changing nature of wildfire smoke, is still in place for the Central and Southern Interior, Boundary, Columbia, and West and East Kootenay regions.
“A cool and showery weather pattern over the long weekend helped slow fire behaviour and improve air quality for many regions. Several large wildfires continue to burn, particularly over the Central and Northern Interior, resulting in ongoing smoky skies surrounding the wildfires,” states Environment Canada in a Sept. 4 update.
“A change from northwesterly to southerly winds on Wednesday will likely spread smoke from wildfires south of the border into BC. A wetter and breezier pattern towards the end of the work week is expected to improve air quality conditions across the province.”
Environment Canada has also rated Prince George at a 4 on the Air Quality Health Index, which is a moderate risk.
Environment Canada advises the at-risk population — people with heart and lunch conditions — to consider reducing or rescheduling strenuous activities outdoors if experiencing symptoms.
The general population should only alert their outdoor activities if experiencing symptoms such as coughing and throat irritation.
The air quality forecast for the next 18 hours sees the health index dropping to a 3 on Wednesday, which is classified as low-risk.
The Smoky Skies Bulletins are based on available pollutant concentrations information, satellite information, smoke forecast models and visual observations, and are not intended to manage local emission sources.
The next bulletin update will be available within 24 to 48 hours.
