Canadian Wildfire Smoke Is Affecting Air Quality. Here's How to Protect Yourself.
The province says smoke levels will vary through the day and may worsen overnight, with health risks higher for older adults and people with chronic illness.
- On Friday, July 17, 2026, Environment Canada issued an air quality warning for the Okanagan and Cariboo regions covering the next 24 to 48 hours as wildfire smoke impacts local air quality.
- Much of the smoke impacting the Interior originates from large wildfires burning in the Fraser Canyon, while some smoke appears to be drifting from fires in Washington State.
- The warning covers the South Thompson region, including Kamloops, plus 100 Mile House and the Boundary region, where smoke is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility.
- Environment Canada advises residents to stay indoors and reduce strenuous activities. "Stop or reduce your activity level if breathing becomes uncomfortable or you feel unwell," the agency stated.
- Individuals with chronic conditions face higher risks during smoke exposure; those unsure about health needs should contact HealthLink at 8-1-1, or call 9-1-1 for medical emergencies.
13 Articles
13 Articles
Air quality warning in effect for Thompson-Okanagan region
Environment Canada continues to warn of air quality issues from wildfire smoke across much of the Thompson-Okanagan region. An air quality warning was issued just before noon, covering all of the Okanagan, the South Thompson region (including Kamloops), Fraser Canyon, 100 Mile House and the Boundary...
Penticton Western News
Wildfire smoke affecting air quality in Okanagan, Cariboo
Wildfire smoke is impacting air quality in the Okanagan and south Cariboo regions of B.C. The province posted an air quality warning Friday morning, July 17, saying air quality will be impacted over the next 24 to 48 hours. Smoke will vary though the day, and smoke in the Okanagan is expected to increase though the day and overnight. “During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour-by-ho…
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