As wildfires continue to rage across BC and throughout Washington, USA, our neighbours to the south, smoke from those fires have cast a shadow over Vancouver Island.
At the time of this publication, there are 103 active wildfires in BC and several large wildfires close to the BC/Washington border.
Most of the smoke impacting Greater Victoria is coming from an ‘out of control’ wildfire near the Klanawa River, just southeast of Bamfield.
Southeastern winds have carried smoke from this 12 acre and growing wildfire toward the capital region which has impacted the air quality index for Victoria only slightly.
According to Environment Canada, the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) is a three out of 10+, indicating a low risk. Earlier this week the AQHI was two.
Environment Canada says that people with lung and respiratory conditions will be most heavily impacted by the air quality, but in its current state the air is still in ideal condition to enjoy most outdoor activities.
Despite the looming smoke, Environment Canada does not expect the air quality to get worse over the next 24 hours.
Many outdoor events are taking place this weekend in Victoria, including the region’s official Pride parade and the Tilt music festival taking place in Phillips Backyard. These events should be safe to enjoy for most people who aren’t affected by respiratory conditions.
Related:
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Two ‘out of control’ wildfires emerge on Vancouver Island over long weekend
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Here’s what to expect at the first weekend of Phillips Backyard Festival
