The air quality in the Parksville Qualicum Beach area has dropped to poor levels as of Thursday morning due to smoke from the Mount Underwood wildfire near Port Alberni.
According to Gail Roth, a senior air quality meteorologist with the Ministry of Environment and Parks, officials continuously monitor air quality during wildfire season to issue timely warnings to affected regions.
“The air quality is quite poor in Parksville and Qualicum Beach,” Roth said. Smoke from the wildfire, which has been burning since Monday, has traveled roughly 100 kilometres to reach the area. The region’s geography can channel the smoke directly into communities when winds blow in the right direction.
Residents have reported dark clouds overhead, ash falling in some areas, and a strong smell of burning. Many are experiencing eye irritation and difficulty breathing.
Roth explained that the wildfire has produced significant smoke since it began. “The smoke from this fire has been travelling a long distance. Your location makes it easier for smoke to funnel into Parksville and nearby areas,” she said.
An air quality warning has been issued for multiple regions, including Comox Valley (Black Creek and Cumberland), central East Vancouver Island (Nanoose Bay, Parksville, Coombs, Qualicum Beach, Fanny Bay, Denman Island, Hornby Island, Lasqueti Island), inland Vancouver Island (Lake Cowichan, Nahmint, Port Alberni, central areas of Strathcona Park and Schoen Lake Provincial Park), and the north Sunshine Coast (Powell River, Quadra Island to Texada Island).
Roth noted that rain expected over the coming days could improve air quality in the affected areas. “Rain is expected to fall over both the fire and your region. That should help a lot,” she said.
Health officials warn that higher smoke levels increase risks to residents, particularly those more vulnerable to air pollution. People are advised to limit outdoor activities and avoid strenuous exercise in smoky conditions.
Groups at higher risk include people aged 65 and older, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, and those with pre-existing conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart disease, or diabetes. Outdoor workers are also encouraged to take precautions.
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent cough, or eye irritation should seek medical advice. Residents are urged to stay informed through local air quality updates and follow guidelines to reduce exposure.
The Ministry continues to monitor the wildfire and its impact on surrounding communities. Updates will be provided as conditions change, and residents should remain vigilant while the smoke persists.
