Return of cold weather leads to new air quality advisory

The return of clear, cold, weather to the Cowichan Valley is leading to a new air quality advisory.

The Ministry of Environment and Island Health say the weather conditions are trapping pollution from smoke close to the ground, so they’ve imposed burning restrictions for the area within 15 kilometres of Duncan City Hall.

Beginning today (Dec 2nd), and for the next three days, nobody can start new fires, and people with fires already burning can’t add new material.

Island Health is also advising people with conditions like asthma to consider staying indoors and avoid strenuous exercise.