Fires trigger air quality concerns in Canada

Air quality officials in Canada are currently monitoring areas of Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley after hot weather and wild fires have caused concern in recent days.

Ken Reid, Metro Vancouver's air quality planner, told CTV that officials have seen an increase in particulate concentrations.

"They are not at a level where we would be considering issuing an advisory and were not exceeding objectives, but it certainly is higher than we would have expected on a day like this," he added.

Air quality levels were rated at between four and six on Tuesday, meaning that people with heart and respiratory problems may be vulnerable if spending long periods of time outside. Quality levels between one and three are deemed as safe.

Meanwhile, it was reported by the Earth Times earlier this week that air quality levels in Hong Kong are continuing to deteriorate, with around one million people considering leaving the city on account of the problems.