The sun is shining and dust is rising.
An air quality advisory has been issued for the dust bowl that is Vernon, effective Friday, Feb. 9.
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy in collaboration with the Interior Health Authority has issued a dust advisory because of high concentrations of coarse particulate matter that are expected to persist until there is precipitation, dust suppression or a change in traffic patterns.
“Levels tend to be highest around busy roads and industrial operations,” the advisory reads.
Exposure is particularly a concern for individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes; respiratory infections such as COVID-19, pregnant women, infants, and older adults.
Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections should postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted.
“Staying indoors helps to reduce particulate matter exposure.”
Concentrations of dust in Vernon are measured at 68.2, more than double that of Kelowna at 27.3 and Castlegar at 28. Golden’s concentration is measured at 19.7.
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