Special air quality statement in effect for the Nicola region

MERRITT – Those with underlying health conditions could be affected by wildfire smoke lingering in the area.

Environment Canada said those with pre-existing health or respiratory conditions are more likely to be affected.

The smoke in the area is making its way up from wildfires in Washington state.

According to officials, the special air quality statement is effecting the Nicola region, which includes Merritt, Strump Lake, Pennask Lake, and Brookmere. Other areas potentially seeing smoke is the Similkameen area, which includes Princeton, and Fraser Canyon (South) Trans Canada Hwy 1 from Lytton to Choate.

The regions of BC listed above being impacted or are likely to be impacted by wildfire smoke over the next 24-48 hours.