The Ministry of Environment & Climate Change Strategy, along with the Northern Health Authority, have issued an Air Quality Advisory for Quesnel.
It is due to high concentrations of fine particulate matter that are expected to persist until weather conditions change.
The level in Quesnel is at 28.7 micrograms per cubic metre, and the provincial objective is 25.
By comparison, Williams Lake is at 14.9 micrograms per cubic metre.
Exposure is particularly a concern for individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes, respiratory conditions such as COVID-19, pregnant women, and infants.
Persons with chronic underlying medical conditions should postpone or reduce strenuous exercise until the advisory is lifted.
Symptoms include continuing eye or throat irritation, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, cough or wheezing.
Sources contributing to the advisory include emissions from wood stoves, as well as emissions from industry and transportation sources such as automobiles, trucks and rail traffic.