Vanderhoof, B.C. – Air quality advisories have been issued for three communities along Highway 16 West, including Vanderhoof.

The advisories have been prompted by high concentrations of fine particulate matter and are expected to persist until Thursday evening or Friday in Vanderhoof, Smithers and Houston. 

The Ministry of Environment says persons with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted.

Exposure is also a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have diabetes, and lung or heart disease.

The provincial air quality objective for PM 2.5, is 25 micrograms per cubic metre averaged over 24 hours.

See attached chart for readings in the affected areas.