Wildfire smoke likely to impact Kamloops and area’s skies: Environment Canada

KAMLOOPS — Smoky skies are expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility in Kamloops and area for the next 24 to 48 hours.

In a special air quality statement late Thursday (July 13) night, Environment Canada says the North and South Thompson regions, along with the Shuswap, are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke Friday and Saturday.

The weather agency states new fire activity over the last 24 hours will affect local smoke conditions. Residents are told to expect haze and smoke conditions to be variable, especially in areas near new fires. Local rainfall may only temporarily improve smoke conditions.

Environment Canada warns that wildfire smoke can be harmful to everyone’s health even at low levels. People with lung disease or heart disease, along with older adults, children, pregnant people, and those who work outdoors are at higher risk of experiencing health effects caused by wildfire smoke.

As of Friday at 5 a.m., the B.C. government’s air quality health index shows Kamloops at a seven on a scale of one to 10, meaning residents should consider reducing or rescheduling demanding outdoor activities. Although the index forecasts a lower risk of three on a scale of one to 10 later Friday night and into the weekend.