(February 23rd 2016 – Kamloops) The Ministry of Environment has issued a Dust Advisory for Vernon because of high concentrations of dust that are expected to persist until there is a change in weather conditions.
Avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Staying indoors with windows and doors closed helps to reduce exposure Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have underlying medical conditions such as breathing or lung conditions, hay fever, asthma or persons who react strongly to dust. If you are experiencing symptoms such as continuing eye or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cough or wheeze, follow the advice of your health care provider.
For more information on current air quality, see: www.bcairquality.ca.
Additional Information: This advisory has been triggered by high concentrations of dust, measured as “PM10”, or particles 10 micrometres or smaller in diameter. Current 24 hour average PM10 concentrations are 60 micrograms per cubic metre and exceed the provincial objective of 50 micrograms per cubic metre, averaged over 24 hours. This episode is expected to continue until there is a change in weather patterns.
Over the last days hourly average PM10 levels have been high in the evening and then decreasing to normal levels during the day. The 24 hour concentration remains high due to the higher evening values. The current dusty conditions are caused by road traffic stirring up winter traction materials that have accumulated on roadways over the past winter.
Real-time concentrations of PM10 in Vernon and other communities in B.C. are available at http://www.bcairquality.ca.