UPDATE:
On Sunday - Environment Canada meteorologist Jonathon Bau predicted an easing of the smoky conditions beginning Monday - but the weather office has amended its forecast, this morning (Mon), to say the smoke will stick around for several more days.
Bau's forecast for a 30% chance of rain for Kelowna this Friday still holds, but only if a cold front drops far enough south. He says any real rainfall will likely stay north of the Okanagan valley.
He says a shift in the weather pattern is what's needed to scrub the air clean.
The Air Quality Health Index for today (Mon) is a 10+ again - or a very high risk to health.
ORIGINAL STORY:
We've been suffering with wildfire smoke in the air for about a week now - with the worst two days this past weekend forcing the cancellation of many outdoor events including the Apple Triathlon in Kelowna.
Environment Canada Meteorologist Jonathon Bau says we might get a break soon.
"We're actually looking at the smoky conditions to get better this coming week. The air quality is expected to start improving, starting Monday, with the Air Quality Health Index sitting at a moderate level compared to the weekend where it was sitting at a 10+ - or very high," he says.
Bau says as the smoke thins out this week, temperatures will rise again into the high 20's - and then by the Friday, there is a slight chance of showers for Kelowna at 30%.
However, he says any significant rainfall will likely stay north of the Okanagan valley.
The Air Quality Health Index on Saturday and Sunday hit 10+ - or a very high risk to health.
Health officials warn to stay inside if you have breathing difficulties. Find an indoor place that's cool and ventilated, and using an air conditioner that cools and filters air may help. If you open the windows you may let in more polluted air.
If your home isn't air-conditioned, consider going to a public place (library, shopping mall, recreation centre) that is air-conditioned.