Image: Drive BC / Highway 1 at Evans Road Overpass
Health Concern

Air Quality Alert for Chilliwack region

Jul 26, 2022 | 4:39 PM

CHILLIWACK — Parts of the Fraser Valley, including Chilliwack, are under an Air Quality Advisory, issued by the Fraser Valley Regional District (FVRD).

High concentrations of ground-level ozone have been recorded in the area. In a news release, the FVRD says ground-level ozone is bad for human health and is the main ingredient in smog.

Poor air quality is expected to remain in place through the week. Air quality is expected to be at its worst during the mid-afternoon and early evening hours.

The FVRD says ground-level ozone is created when nitrogen oxides and volatile organic compounds react in the air in the presence of sunlight. The sunny hot forecast is contributing to the issue.

Wildfire smoke from the Nohomin Creek fire near Lytton has drifted over the Fraser Valley however measurements of fine particulate matter associated with wildfire smoke, have not risen dramatically according to the FVRD.

If you are suffering from chest discomfort, shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing, you should seek prompt medical attention. In the case of an emergency, call 911.

Residents are also advised to avoid strenuous outdoor activities from mid-afternoon to early evening when ozone levels are highest, and instead choose easier outdoor activities, such as walking instead of running, where you don’t have to breathe as hard.