Why smoky skies are sticking around

Smoky air is persisting in Greater Victoria and a special air-quality advisory from Environment Canada will stand until further notice.

A smoky skies bulletin was first issued Tuesday for most of the Island as particulate from wildfires in Washington state and the B.C. Interior reached the region. This has resulted in poor air quality and reduced visibility for the area, posing health risks for those with respiratory and heart conditions.

Earle Plain, air quality meteorologist for the province, said a lack of wind and rain has contributed to the problem. “Basically, there’s been no wind and that’s what we need to really scour the smoke out of the area,” said Plain, adding this should change over the next few days, helping to clear out the smoke.

“Rain will help a lot, but the wind is the big one, having these southerly winds flow back to normal west-to-east patterns.”

According to data posted Thursday on bcairquality.ca, high levels of particulate matter were recorded at several Island locations.

Duncan had the highest reading. As of 6 p.m., the health risk was rated moderate in Duncan, Nanaimo and Campbell River and low in the Comox Valley, Victoria, Saanich and the West Shore. Similar conditions are expected today.

Smoke can cause increased coughing, throat irritation, headaches or shortness of breath. Children, seniors, and those with a cardiovascular or lung disease, such as asthma, are especially at risk.

“I’ve definitely had an increase in calls from patients. Many are just staying indoors,” said Dr. John Reid, a Victoria respirologist. He said this time of year is already a difficult month for people with respiratory issues because of the heat, particularly those with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Reid, who sees mostly adults in their 60s and older, said the more inflammatory attacks people have, the more their health deteriorates. “There is the potential for longer-term damage.”

Environment Canada is forecasting showers and clouds for the weekend, with sunny skies and rising temperatures early next week. It is not clear whether smoke will remain in the region.