Active AlertsCariboo - north including Quesnel

The Ministry of Environment and Parks in collaboration with the Northern Health Authority has issued an Air Quality Warning for Quesnel due to elevated coarse particulate matter.

Exposure to coarse particulate matter is particularly a concern for infants, older adults, individuals with chronic conditions (such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, and diabetes) or respiratory infections, and those who are pregnant.

Postpone or reduce strenuous outdoor activities until the warning has ended. Spend time indoors in a space with filtered air. Monitor your symptoms and seek prompt medical attention if needed.

Conditions may improve later in the day as meteorological conditions change.

The next update will be on May 09, 2026 and posted to the province’s Air Quality Warnings webpage (https://aqwarnings.gov.bc.ca/).

Visit the provincial air quality data webpage (https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/environment/air-land-water/air/air-quality) for real-time observations.

###

When air pollution levels are high, everyone should limit time outdoors. Consider reducing or rescheduling outdoor sports, activities and events.

You may experience mild and common symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or a mild cough. More serious but less common symptoms include wheezing, chest pains or severe cough. If you think you are having a medical emergency, seek immediate medical assistance.

People more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution, including people aged 65 and older, pregnant people, infants and young children, people with an existing illness or chronic health condition, and people who work outdoors, should reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors and seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms.

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.

When indoors, keep windows and doors closed as much as possible. When there is an extreme heat event occurring with poor air quality, prioritize keeping cool.

Protect your indoor air from outdoor air pollution. Actions can include using a clean, good quality air filter in your ventilation system and/or a certified portable air cleaner.

Check in on others who are in your care or live nearby who may be more likely to be impacted by outdoor air pollution.

Always follow guidance from local authorities.