Environment Canada is warning Vancouver Island residents of potential air quality risks due to wildfire smoke.
On Saturday morning, the weather office issued a special air quality statement for all regions of Vancouver Island, except North Vancouver Island.
“These regions are being impacted or are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke over the next 24 to 48 hours,” said Environment Canada.
“Winds across the province are expected to shift several times in the next 24 hours. Expect smoke conditions to also change rapidly over both space and time.”
Wildfire smoke can cause coughing, difficulty breathing, irritated eyes and increased mucus production in the nose and throat.
Environment Canada recommends that people keep their doors and windows closed if possible, and drink plenty of water to protect themselves from the smoke.
Some people are more vulnerable to air quality risks, such as older adults, children, pregnant people, or people with lung or heart disease.
Anyone who works outdoors is also at higher risk of symptoms caused by wildfire smoke.
“Take a break from the smoke at a location in your community where you can find clean, cool air,” recommends Environment Canada.
Another update on smoke conditions in the province is expected Sunday.
The smoke is largely coming from wildfires in B.C.’s Interior and northern Washington.
On Friday evening, B.C. declared a provincewide state of emergency due to the wildfire situation in Kelowna, where thousands have been ordered to evacuate.