Metro Vancouver air-quality warning lifted as smoke moves east

Air-quality warnings that had been in effect across Metro Vancouver since Monday have been lifted after coastal winds pushed wildfire smoke eastward, the Metro Vancouver Regional District says.

Air-quality health index readings across Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley have fallen to low risk, with no area higher than 3, according to Environment Canada. That level allows even people at higher risk to continue their usual outdoor activities.

Yellow warnings had covered Metro Vancouver, Abbotsford and Mission, while orange warnings were issued for Chilliwack, Agassiz and Hope. When readings were between 4 and 6, people with heart or lung concerns, as well as seniors and children, were advised to reduce or reschedule strenuous activity if they developed symptoms.

The winds improving conditions near Metro Vancouver may worsen conditions farther east. In the Okanagan and B.C.’s Interior, AQHI readings have reached 10+, the highest level and a very high health risk for outdoor exertion. The province expects orange warnings in those regions to remain through much of the weekend as smoke continues to pool beneath a high-pressure system.