An orange air quality warning, which signals a “very high health risk” is in effect for the eastern Fraser Valley Tuesday, according to the regional district. The warning covers the area that includes Chilliwack, Agassiz and Hope, a statement from Metro Vancouver said, explaining that conditions had deteriorated since an initial warning was issued Monday. “Overnight, smoke from the wildfire complex near Boston Bar and the wildfire complex north of Cache Creek drifted over the region, resulting in widespread smoky skies,” the statement from Metro Vancouver said, explaining why the previous warning had been upgraded. “Yesterday afternoon, the fires were more aggressive and generated more smoke, which drifted south over the Lower Mainland.” While the warning is in place, people are being urged to limit their time outdoors and to keep the windows and doors closed while indoors, where possible. People with chronic cardiovascular conditions, infants, pregnant people, the elderly and people who work outdoors are at increased risk, the regional district also noted, encouraging people to check on those who are most vulnerable. The long weekend saw a surge in wildfire activity and intensity, and provincial officials have said more hot, dry and windy weather is expected in the coming days.
