Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) issued a special air quality statement today, Wednesday, August 13, until Friday, August 15, for the northern Sunshine Coast because of a rapidly growing wildfire near Port Alberni on Vancouver Island.
The Mount Underwood wildfire had grown to an estimated 2,036 hectares as of Wednesday morning.
Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility, read the ECCC statement.
"East Vancouver Island and the Sunshine Coast are expected to be heavily affected; smoke may not be visible until overnight/tomorrow morning,” warned the ECCC. "The heaviest impacts on the Sunshine Coast will be on Texada Island and Powell River, with a lesser impact inland."
ECCC stated that during a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and vary considerably hour-by-hour.
For updates, go to the province's air quality warnings webpage.
“As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors and consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.”
People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, are advised to reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
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