Wildfire Smoke Casts Orange Glow Over Nanaimo

September 4, 2025

What was supposed to be a blazing-hot and sunny day in Nanaimo turned out to be a bit overcast with smoke from local wildfires.

The whole town had a strange orange glow for most of the day on Thursday.

Wildfire Smoke Blanket Covers the Region

Much of British Columbia is experiencing extremely poor air quality as wildfire smoke drifts across the province. Environment Canada has issued air quality alerts, with the air quality health index topping 10+ (the worst possible score) in many regions, including Metro Vancouver, due to smoke from approximately 155 active wildfires – 58 of which are still out of control.

The situation has led to hazy skies, reduced visibility, and escalating health concerns, especially amidst ongoing record-breaking heat. Residents are being advised to limit outdoor activities, use air purifiers, and wear KN95 masks when outside if possible.

Wildfires Spark Disruptions in the Interior

In the province's Interior, a fast-moving wildfire near the Coquihalla Highway has triggered evacuation alerts for about 84 properties and even prompted a highway closure as drivers passed through embers.

Meanwhile, in the Cariboo region, a civilian drone collided with a BC Wildfire Service firefighting aircraft, underlining the dangers and complexities of aerial firefighting operations in the current wildfire season.