North Island Smoke Forecast August 14

Here’s the smoke forecast and air quality outlook for North Vancouver Island this week:

Smoke & Air Quality Overview

Friday, August 14 – Saturday, August 16:

• Expect intermittent periods of rainfall, which should help clear lingering smoke or haze. The wet conditions will likely improve air quality temporarily by washing particulates from the air.
• Environment Canada has issued a Rainfall Warning for the Metro Vancouver – North Shore region (which also covers nearby areas across the sound). Heavy downpours could deliver 50–80 mm+ of rain, significantly aiding in clearing smoke and pollutants .

Sunday, August 17 – Wednesday, August 20:

• The skies are forecasted to clear up with increasing sunshine and diminishing clouds. This means that any residual smoke could linger if there are ongoing fires or drift from inland, due to limited precipitation after Saturday.
• With stable, dry weather returning, light winds could allow particulates to accumulate, especially in low-lying valleys.

Air Quality Recommendations

• During Rain Events (Friday–Saturday): Take advantage of naturally cleaner air for outdoor activities. Wearing a light rain jacket as needed will help you make the most of these fresh conditions.

• During Dry, Sunny Days (Sunday onward):

  • Keep an eye on local air quality indices (AQI) via apps like the BC Smoke Dashboard or Google’s Air Quality layer.
  • If AQI rises (e.g., AQI > 100), sensitive individuals — such as children, seniors, and those with respiratory conditions — should consider staying indoors or reducing physical exertion outdoors.
  • Even when visible smoke isn’t present, small particulate matter (PM₂.₅) may still be elevated.

Day-by-Day Smoke Outlook:

Final Takeaway:
Rainfall Friday and Saturday offers great natural smoke-clearing potential. Enjoy the outdoors during that window! Afterward, watch for accumulating haze during the dry stretch Sunday through mid-week, especially if nearby wildfires continue. Monitoring AQI in real time will be key for deciding when it’s safe to be outside.