Wildfire smoke moves over Kamloops

KAMLOOPS – Smoke from the Sparks Lake wildfire has moved into the valley which is home to the city of Kamloops and Kamloops Lake, bringing back memories from smoky summers in 2017 and 2018.

Environment Canada in partnership with the B.C. Ministry of Environment issued a smoky skies bulletin for the South Thompson earlier this week, suggesting the region could see wildfire smoke impact communities in the region over the next day or two.

Winds in Kamloops were blowing from the east or southeast most of Wednesday, until shifting between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. for a few hours. Environment Canada records show the wind direction changed and began to blow in from the west, bringing the smoke from the Sparks Lake fire directly into the Kamloops airshed.

The smoky skies bulletin says wildfire smoke is a constantly-changing mixture of particles and gasses which includes many chemicals that can harm your health.

Health officials suggest limiting outdoor activity and strenuous physical activities during times of heavy smoke. If possible, keep windows and doors closed to prevent the smoke from entering your home, as long as the temperature is comfortable.

The website Firesmoke.ca suggests the smoke could remain in the Kamloops airshed for at least a couple of days.