Local Smoke from International Sources

PRINCE GEORGE – It’s the weather forecast summer lovers have been waiting for,  sunny and hot,  but with the warmth is coming smoke and haze.  Northern BC is under a smoky skies advisory.

The smoke is coming from a number of sources,  some from very far away, a phenomenon known as long-range transport can carry smoke hundreds and even thousands of kilometres away from a fire.  Jessica Mack with the Cariboo Fire Centre says “Over the last few days, smoke in the northern half of the province can be attributed to an upper low that has pulled smoke into B.C. from the fires currently burning in Manitoba and Ontario. Today, some of this smoke can even be accredited internationally, coming from countries such as Siberia and Eurasia!”

Those with pre-existing conditions, the elderly, infants, and children are more likely to experience health effects from smoke exposure.  During smoky conditions, it’s recommended to stop or reduce activity level if breathing is difficult, stay cool, and carry rescue medications at all times.

The warm weather expected to continue through the weekend,  while forest fires themselves are a little more difficult to predict.