Residents in the Eastern Fraser Valley are being advised to limit time outdoors as an air quality warning has been issued due to wildfire smoke.

The warning from Environment Canada covers an area including Chilliwack, Agassiz, and Hope, where smoke from wildfires near Boston Bar and the Southern Interior has contributed to deteriorating air quality.

The agency says concentrations of fine particulate matter have reached levels that could affect people’s health. The poor air quality may persist until weather conditions improve.

Health officials recommend residents reduce or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities, particularly when smoke is visible, or air quality conditions worsen. Those most vulnerable to smoke exposure include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, infants and children, pregnant people and outdoor workers.

Officials also advise people to keep indoor air as clean as possible by using air filtration systems and keeping windows and doors closed when conditions are smoky. Residents whose homes become too smoky or hot are encouraged to seek cleaner air in air-conditioned public spaces such as libraries, community centres or shopping malls.

Environment Canada says people experiencing serious symptoms, including difficulty breathing, chest pain, wheezing or a severe cough, should seek medical attention immediately.