Residents in Kamloops, British Columbia, were startled by an eerie sight on Tuesday night, likening the sky to a scene from a Stephen King movie. Strong winds ushered in a post-apocalyptic atmosphere, prompting locals like Rob Woods to wear masks when stepping outside the next morning.
The shift in skies started Tuesday afternoon, with smoke from distant wildfires enveloping the city. By 4 p.m., officials clarified on social media that the smoke originated from the Brunswick fire complex in Boston Bar, about 120 kilometers away.
As the day progressed, the sky turned orange, creating an ominous ambiance. By evening, streetlights illuminated the darkened sky, with one resident describing the scene as pitch black.
Meteorologist Morgen Shull from Environment Canada explained that westerly winds carrying the smoke weakened overnight, leaving it trapped over the area. Air quality deteriorated rapidly, soaring from a low-risk level of 3 to a hazardous 10+ within hours, prompting advisories to avoid outdoor activities.
The smoky conditions persisted overnight, with ash raining down on the city, coating cars and surfaces with a layer of dust. Shull anticipated continued poor air quality due to the lack of significant wind changes.
The Interior Health Authority urged residents to stay indoors during heavy smoke periods, recommending the use of HEPA air cleaners or DIY air purifiers. Exposure to wildfire smoke can cause various health issues, including respiratory irritation and exacerbation of existing conditions.
With air quality warnings expected to persist for the next couple of days, Kamloops residents are advised to take precautions and minimize outdoor exposure to the smoky conditions.