Smoky sky as seen on a Highway 97 camera at Sales Road, about 10km south of Quesnel. (Image Credit: DriveBC)

By Victor Kaisar

Smoky Sky

UPDATE: Special air quality statements for Prince George, Cariboo-Chilcotin lifted

Aug 30, 2025 | 10:58 AM

PRINCE GEORGE — (UPDATE Aug. 31, 10:45 a.m.): The special air quality statement has been lifted.

ORIGINAL – Wildfire smoke has led to a special air quality statement for the City of Prince George as well as areas of the Cariboo and the Chilcotin.

The alert issued by Environment Canada and the B.C. Ministry of Environment and Parks says the impacted areas – listed below – are being impacted or are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke over the next 24-48 hours.

• Cariboo (North): includes Quesnel, Wells and Bowron Lake Park.
• Chilcotin: includes Hansville, Alexis Creek, Chilanko Forks, Tatla Lake, Nimpo Lake, Anahim Lake, and the southern half of Tweedsmuir Park.
• Prince George: includes the City of Prince George, Hwy 16 Bednesti to Upper Fraser, and Hwy 97 Hixon to the south end of McLeod Lake.

The smoke is being caused by new fire starts across the Cariboo Fire Centre following Friday’s (Aug. 29) dry thunderstorm activity. The most significant one is the 350 hectare Tsetzi Lake fire which has led to an evacuation alert from the Cariboo Regional District.

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“During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-hour,” the alert said.

People are being urged to limit the time they spend outdoors, especially if there is thick smoke or if they are more at risk. People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution are the elderly, infants and young children, outdoor workers, as well as people with existing illness or chronic health condition, and those who are pregnant.

“They should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms,” the alert added.

The next update on the air quality advisory will be available on Sunday (Aug. 31).

You can find the latest on local air quality here and the latest on wildfire activity here.