Residents travelling through the North Okanagan should be aware of a special air quality statement that is still in effect.
According to Environment Canada, a road dust advisory that was issued on Wednesday has been extended. The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy, as well as Interior Health, issued the alert due to high concentrations of coarse particulate matter in the air.
This matter is expected to persist until there is precipitation, dust suppression or there is a change in traffic patterns. Levels tend to be highest around busy roads and industrial operations.
"Exposure is a concern for pregnant women, infants, and older adults, as well as, individuals with conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, diabetes or respiratory infections such as COVID-19," wrote Environment Canada. "Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections should postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted."
"Where appropriate, maintain physical distancing. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as continuing eye or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cough or wheezing, should follow the advice of their health care provider."
Real-time air quality observations and information regarding the health effects of air pollution can be found here.
NowMedia will update the story when the advisory has been rescinded.
If you get value from KelownaNow and believe local independent media is important to our community we ask that you please consider subscribing to our daily newsletter.
If you appreciate what we do, we ask that you consider supporting our local independent news platform.
