Poor air quality expected to continue until Tuesday across Fraser Valley

CHILLIWACK — Wildfires burning throughout British Columbia and the state of Washington are smothering parts of the province with choking levels of smoke. The situation led to the declaration of an air advisory Saturday (Aug. 19) for B.C.’s Lower Mainland and the Fraser Valley.

Provincial health authorities are reminding residents to take action to avoid exposure to the harmful effects of wildfire smoke.

According to the Firesmoke website, conditions through the airshed are expected to remain problematic through Monday before beginning to clear up early Tuesday morning when rain showers are forecast to move through the Fraser Valley.

In a news release Sunday, the Ministry of Health says residents who are already dealing with health conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, asthma, respiratory infections, heart disease or diabetes along with pregnant women, infants and children, and seniors are at greater risk.