August 24th, 2015 16:00 PDT– Penticton. The Ministry of Environment, in collaboration with the Interior Health Authority, is updating the Smoky Skies Advisory issued on August 20th to include the entire Boundary and Kootenay areas due to forest-fire smoke that is affecting the region.

Southerly winds have continued to spread further north heavy plumes of smoke from the large wildfires burning in Washington State, resulting in high concentrations of fine particulates and poor air quality. While this episode is expected to persist until a major shift in wind patterns and weather conditions, smoke concentrations will vary widely as winds, fire behaviour and temperatures change.

Avoid strenuous outdoor activities. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, contact your health care provider: difficulty in breathing, chest pain or discomfort, and sudden onset of cough or irritation of airways. Exposure is particularly a concern for infants, the elderly and those who have underlying medical conditions such as diabetes, and lung or heart disease.

This advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

View "Additional Info" for the full media update from the Ministry of Environment and the Interior Health Authority.