Interior Health and B.C.‘s Ministry of Environment and Parks issued a dust advisory for the city of Vernon Friday, citing “high concentrations of coarse particulate matter” in the North Okanagan hub.
“Sources of (particulate matter) contributing to this air quality episode include road dust from the emission of winter traction material along busy and dry road surfaces,” reads a version of the advisory posted on the provincial government’s website.
The dust issue is expected to persist until there is “precipitation, dust suppression or a change in traffic patterns,” the advisory reads, adding that concentrations of particulate matter tend to be highest along busy roads and near industrial operations.
“Exposure is particularly a concern for individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes; respiratory infections such as COVID-19, pregnant women, infants, and older adults,” the advisory notes.
“Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections should postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted.”
Staying indoors can reduce exposure, as can running an air cleaner, authorities said.
The dust advisory is in effect until further notice.
