As B.C. burns, air quality remains poor for much of province, including Metro Vancouver

As smoky skies from the wildfires burning throughout B.C. persist, air quality remains poor throughout much of the province, including in Metro Vancouver — but some regions have seen a reprieve.

According to the B.C. air quality data map, Nanaimo, southwest Metro Vancouver, southeast Metro Vancouver and the central Fraser Valley had a 10+ rating as of 8 a.m. PT. Tuesday, indicating a very high health risk.

At this risk level, people are recommended to reduce or reschedule strenuous activities outdoors. Children, the elderly and people with breathing problems should also avoid outdoor physical exertion.

If the AQHI index has increased to 7 (high health risk),