Okanagan wildfire smoke lowers fire behaviour but raises health risks

Wildfire smoke from fires on both sides of the border is blanketing much of B.C., bringing very high-risk air quality to the central Okanagan. In Kelowna, smoke over Lake Okanagan has reduced visibility enough that the opposite shore is difficult to see in some areas.

Environment Canada rated the central Okanagan air-quality index at 10+, its very high-risk category. The agency advises people with heart or lung conditions, children and seniors to avoid strenuous outdoor activity; health professionals say everyone should limit time outside, particularly those with underlying conditions.

The conditions led organizers to cancel the Argus Apple Triathlon scheduled for Sunday in Kelowna, citing the safety of athletes, volunteers and residents.

The B.C. Wildfire Service says the smoke has also slightly cooled ground conditions, reducing fire behaviour and growth on the Bradley Creek complex. It cautioned that fire activity could increase when the smoke clears if heat and wind rise. The Bradley Creek fire measured 2,853 hectares Friday afternoon.