A special air quality statement is in effect for the Alberni Valley, and all areas on Vancouver Island.
Smoke from North Island and Interior BC fires are covering the province in particle pollution.
Specialized machines measure PM 2.5 levels – or Particulate Matter that is 25 microns within one cubic meter of air.
The normal level is 25 on the particulate matter scale.
Last night the local Alberni weather station measured 146 micrograms at 9 pm.
It was even worse in Nanaimo where the levels hit 186 micrograms.
Anyone with breathing difficulties or compromised immune systems are advised to stay in doors, and away from any strenuous activities.
The reading at the Alberni weather station at 8 a.m. was 85.
http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/…/…/readings/find-stations-map.html