The summer heat in Metro Vancouver is bringing some of the worst air conditions this weekend, as smoke from wildfires blankets the region. Meteorologist Michael Kuss from 1130 NewsRadio warns that Saturday could see the lowest air quality of the week.
The Metro Vancouver Regional District (MVRD) has issued an Air Quality Warning since Wednesday due to high levels of fine particulate matter caused by nearby wildfires in Whistler, Hope, Cariboo, and the U.S. The smoke is descending to ground level, leading to poor air quality especially in the northwestern areas and the valley.
Kuss advises avoiding higher elevation spots like North Shore, Tri-Cities, Burnaby Mountain, and Chilliwack where smoke levels are dangerously high. While conditions are expected to slightly improve in the next few days, significant relief is still a few days away.
Rain is forecasted for Sunday and Monday, which should help clear the smoke-filled air. However, until then, residents are urged to limit outdoor activities, keep windows closed, and use HEPA air cleaners indoors to mitigate the effects of the poor air quality.