Track Air Quality of Wildfire Smoke

Increased numbers of wildfires in your region may result in reduced air quality due to excessive smoke. Smoke can spread over large areas depending on the prevailing winds, at high altitudes or ground level.

The British Columbia government issues public advisories known as Smoky Skies Bulletins when areas are being affected by wildfire smoke. These advisories are based on pollutant concentrations, satellite information, smoke forecast models, and on-the-ground visual observations. You can check for these advisories at: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air/air-quality/air-advisories?keyword=smoky&keyword=skies&keyword=bulletin.

The travelling public can also view the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI), which provides air quality readings and health warnings for the majority of the province’s population, and is updated hourly. It also provides tips on minimizing the health risks of air pollution. Available here: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/epd/bcairquality/data/aqhi-table.html