Active Weather Alerts
Special Air Quality Statement
Issued: 9:12 PM Sep. 5, 2025 – Environment and Climate Change Canada
(September 5, 2025) Metro Vancouver Regional District is continuing an Air Quality Warning in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley due to elevated fine particulate matter (small particles in the air that may impact health). This warning began on September 3 and is expected to last until there is a change in weather. Cause: Wildfire smoke is impacting air quality in Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley. Wildfires contributing to smoke in the region include fires north of Whistler, east of Hope, and a large complex of fires in the Cariboo region, in addition to fires in the US. Smoke concentrations are expected to vary across the region today as winds, temperatures, and wildfire behaviour change. At times, air quality in some areas may be better than others. Important information: - Outdoor Activities: Consider postponing or limiting outdoor activities, especially for people at risk, including those with lung and heart conditions or diabetes, pregnant people, infants, children, and older adults. Take it easy and take frequent breaks if outdoor activities cannot be avoided. - Find Cleaner Air: Use a portable HEPA air cleaner in one or more rooms at home. Keep windows and doors closed but ensure the space does not get too hot. If your home is too smoky or hot, spend time in community spaces that have air conditioning since they also tend to have better air quality. These can include community centres, libraries, and shopping malls. - Heat Safety: Heat and air pollution can happen together. Heat is a bigger health concern for most people. Stay cool, drink plenty of water and spend time in spaces with air conditioning. Check with your municipality to see if cooling centres are available near you. - Monitor Your Symptoms: Seek medical care for symptoms like chest discomfort, shortness of breath, severe coughing or wheezing, and dizziness. Check on family, friends, and neighbours often, and call 9-1-1 in the case of an emergency. - Check Air Quality Regularly: Monitor the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) rating nearest you at airmap.ca or gov.bc.ca/airqualitymap. Use the current health messages accompanying the rating to make decisions about your outdoor activities. Air quality can change throughout the day and by location so check the AQHI often. Sign up for Air Quality Warning alerts and updates at metrovancouver.org/services/air-quality-climate-action/mailing-list. ### For more information on current air quality, visit https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air. Visit http://www.airhealth.ca for information on how to reduce your health risk and your personal contribution to pollution levels, as well as for current and forecast AQHI values. Please continue to monitor alerts and forecasts issued by Environment Canada.
Local Radar