Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement for the Comox Valley.
Smoke is causing or expected to cause poor air quality and reduced visibility. The smoke is largely from the Mount Underwood fire near Port Alberni. The smoke will impact areas from Nanoose Bay to Campbell RIver, as well as Inland Vancouver Island for the next 24-48 hours.
"Over the next 24 hours, smoke may also be visible in areas adjacent to the regions currently issued under this warning, including coastal sections north of the Sunshine Coast and northeastern Vancouver Island 鈥� particularly Port McNeill and Port Hardy," a release from Environment Canada says. "Additionally, light smoke from the Bear Gulch fire in Washington State is expected to reach Harrison Lake overnight, with conditions forecast to improve by midday tomorrow as smoke dissipates."
During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour.
As smoke levels increase, health risks increase. Limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.
People may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.
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, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.
When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool. Protect your indoor air from wildfire smoke. Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner that can filter fine particles. If you must spend time outdoors, a well-constructed, well-fitting and properly worn respirator type mask (such as a NIOSH-certified N95 or equivalent respirator) can reduce your exposure to the fine particles in the smoke. Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health. Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution. Always follow guidance from local authorities.
The next update will be available on August 15, 2025 and made available on the Province鈥檚 Air Quality Warnings webpage.
