UPDATE:
The dust advisory for Quesnel has ended.
The Ministry of Environment and Climate Change Strategy updated the alert via email on Friday morning, around 10:30 a.m.
The advisory was in place for nearly 20 hours.
ORIGINAL STORY:
A dust advisory has been issued for Cariboo north including Quesnel due to high concentrations of coarse particulate matter.
The advisory was issued at 4:02 p.m. by the Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Strategy in collaboration with the Northern Health Authority, which noted the situation is expected to persist until there is precipitation, dust suppression, or a change in traffic patterns.
“Levels tend to be highest around busy roads and industrial operations,” states the advisory which is in effect until further notice.
As of Thursday afternoon the risk was ranked at moderate. Thursday night and Friday morning the risk was to return to low, or 3.
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.
“Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions or acute infections should postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted. Where appropriate, maintain physical distancing. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as continuing eye or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cough or wheezing, should follow the advice of their health care provider,” states the advisory.
Staying indoors helps to reduce particulate matter exposure. You can limit exposure to air pollution by avoiding source emissions, where possible, such as on busy roads or heavy traffic areas.
Read More: B.C. nears 300,000 COVID-19 vaccinations, essential workers next
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