Decreased smoke means better visibility for tonight's Celebration of Light

Decreased smoke means better visibility for tonight's Honda Celebration of Light

Air quality conditions over English Bay on the morning of Wednesday, August 3, 2017. (Jenni Sheppard / Daily Hive)

Smoke from the wildfires burning in the interior of the province is not expected to affect tonight’s Honda Celebration of Light fireworks show, according to festival organizers.

Although an air quality advisory was extended this afternoon, Environment Canada’s latest forecast indicates visibility has increased since this morning’s readings, and winds have steadily picked up throughout the day to 24 km/hr NW as of late this afternoon.

And as a precaution and in response to the advisories issued by the federal weather agency, organizers say they are working closely with the BC Ambulance Services, Vancouver Fire Rescue Services, and the City of Vancouver to ensure the festival space is safe for all who attend.

This includes an increased supply of drinking water and an increased number of tented structures onsite so that attendees can stay hydrated and take advantage of the shade.

“In light of the heat wave that will pass through Metro Vancouver for the remainder of the week, the Honda Celebration of Light is encouraging all attendees to drink lots of water, wear plenty of sunscreen, and keep an eye on family and friends,” reads a statement.

A pyrotechnics team representing the United Kingdom will deliver tonight’s show, which is the second night of this year’s three-night fireworks festival. The show, launched from a barge in the middle of English Bay, begins at 10 pm sharp.

Temperatures will hover at 23°C tonight when the fireworks begin exploding.

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