VANCOUVER — An air-quality warning has been issued by the Metro Vancouver regional district as wildfire smoke blankets much of Western Canada. Environment Canada has expanded air-quality advisories to over 30 areas, from the Lower Mainland to northeastern British Columbia. Higher-level warnings are also in effect across most of Alberta and parts of northwestern Saskatchewan.

The Metro Vancouver bulletin indicates that the heavy haze is expected to persist for several days or until weather conditions improve. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities due to elevated levels of fine particulate matter in the air. In response to the situation, the Vancouver School Board has moved all activities indoors.

The smoke is attributed to high humidity and a heat wave that has affected the region. The Fraser Canyon community of Lytton recently tied the record for the hottest temperature ever recorded in Canada for September, reaching 40 degrees Celsius. This temperature also broke Lytton’s previous daily record of 39.6 degrees Celsius set in 2022. Additionally, 11 other communities in British Columbia, including Cache Creek, Kelowna, Princeton, and Whistler, have reported local temperature records.

Heat warnings are currently in effect for nine areas in the province, including parts of the north and central coast, as well as the North and South Thompson, Fraser Canyon, and Boundary regions. Environment Canada attributes the heat in the southern Interior to a ridge of high pressure over the area, which poses a “moderate risk” to public health. These heat warnings are expected to lift by Thursday for the southern Interior and by Friday for inland coastal areas.

The smoke contributing to the air quality concerns is linked to wildfires in various locations, including blazes east of Hope, near Whistler, and in the Cariboo region, as well as fires in the United States. In Alberta, Environment Canada has recommended that residents limit outdoor activities and reschedule events as necessary. The agency has noted that the smoke is causing “very poor air quality and reduced visibility in some areas.” For those who must be outside, it is advised to wear a respirator-type mask to minimize exposure to fine particles in the smoke. The agency cautions, “Even though exposure may be reduced, there can still be risks to health.”