METRO Vancouver Regional District on Tuesday issued an Air Quality Warning in Central Fraser Valley and Eastern Fraser Valley due to elevated ground-level ozone (smog).

This warning is expected to last at least until Wednesday or until there is a change in weather. The warning will remain in effect until further notice.

Cause: Hot and sunny weather in combination with local emissions has resulted in elevated levels of ground-level ozone.

Air Quality Warning in effect for:

• Central Fraser Valley
• Eastern Fraser Valley

Important information:

• Outdoor Activities: Consider postponing or limiting outdoor activities, especially for people at risk, including those with lung and heart conditions or diabetes, pregnant people, infants, children, and older adults. Take it easy and take frequent breaks if outdoor activities cannot be avoided.
• Find Cleaner and Cooler Air: Heat and air pollution can happen together. Heat is a bigger health concern for most people. Stay cool and drink plenty of water. At home, use portable or central air conditioning. If your home is too smoky or hot, spend time in community spaces that have air conditioning. These can include community centres, libraries, and shopping malls. Check with your municipality to see if cooling centres are available near you.
• Monitor Your Symptoms: Seek medical care for symptoms like chest discomfort, shortness of breath, severe coughing or wheezing, and dizziness. Check on family, friends, and neighbours often, and call 9-1-1 in the case of an emergency.
• Check Air Quality Regularly: Monitor the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) rating nearest you at airmap.ca or gov.bc.ca/airqualitymap. Use the current health messages accompanying the rating to make decisions about your outdoor activities. Air quality can change throughout the day and by location so check the AQHI often. Sign up for Air Quality Warning alerts and updates at metrovancouver.org/services/air-quality-climate-action/mailing-list.