While we've seen some relief from poor air quality in the last few days in Kelowna, it looks like that relief won't be lasting much longer.
While the air quality health index was sitting at a 5, or a moderate risk to health, this morning, it's expected to go back to a rating of 10+, or a very high risk to health, by the late evening.
Environment Canada meteorologist Lisa Erven says this is being caused by some strong southwest winds.
“This has the potential to bring smoke from wildfires such as the Snowy Mountain complex and some of the other fires burning over higher terrain just west of the Okanagan,” says Erven.
The good news is that a strong cold front is still expected to arrive on Thursday evening, which could make a dent in the smoke by bringing cooler temperatures and showers.
Unfortunately, this comes with a trade-off: with showers, there’s a chance of lightning storms, and there could be some strong winds following that cold front, which may bring even more smoke to the Okanagan.
With this in mind, residents are encouraged to limit their outdoor activity in smoky conditions, and seek out air-conditioned buildings.
As of 4 PM Wednesday afternoon, the air quality health index reads at 7, which is still considered a high risk to health.