Wildfire smoke in Okanagan Valley prompts air quality alert

People in the area of the Eagle Bluff wildfire in B.C.'s Okanagan Valley are being warned to take extra precautions over the next couple of days to prevent exposure to smoke.

Environment Canada has issued a special air quality statement aimed at areas including Penticton, Summerland, Naramata, Keremeos, Oliver and Osoyoos.

"Wildfire smoke is a constantly changing mixture of particles and gases, which includes many chemicals that can harm your health," said Environment Canada.

"During a wildfire, smoke conditions can change quickly over short distances and can vary considerably hour by hour," a statement said.

People with pre-existing health conditions, the elderly, pregnant women and children are more likely to have their health affected by smoke exposure.

New wildfire between Oliver and Okanagan Falls, B.C., prompts evacuation alert
On Monday, the fire, burning halfway between Oliver and Okanagan Falls, prompted an evacuation alert for more than 200 properties.

An evacuation alert means residents must be prepared to leave the area on short notice.

The B.C. Wildfire Service said about 100 personnel, eight helicopters and two water tenders have been assigned to fight the fire. As of Monday afternoon, it had grown to 225 hectares.

Wildfires have burned just over 144 square kilometres in B.C. in 2019, compared to 970 square kilometres consumed as of Aug. 5, 2018.