Vancouver currently tops world's major cities for worst air quality | Daily Hive

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Vancouver’s air quality was ranked as the worst in the world on Wednesday.

As of 11:34 a.m. PT, Vancouver ranked number one on IQAir’s list of the most polluted major cities in the world, with an AQI reading of 180, surpassing Lahore, Pakistan; Jakarta, Indonesia; and Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Wildfire smoke has settled over the region, making for an uncomfortable and unhealthy Wednesday morning.

According to Metro Vancouver’s air quality network, the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI) hit 10+, the highest possible category, between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m., before easing slightly.

The spike in Vancouver air quality levels is linked to fires burning near Whistler, Hope, and the Cariboo, according to the Government of B.C.’s website.

Winds blowing down Howe Sound are also carrying smoke into Horseshoe Bay and parts of West Vancouver.

Update from officials

At 11:30 a.m. PT on Wednesday, September 3, 2025, an Air Quality Warning for Metro Vancouver and the Fraser Valley was issued.

Officials said the advisory, triggered by wildfire smoke from B.C. and the U.S., is expected to remain in place for several days or until weather conditions change.

Authorities warned that as smoke levels rise, so do health risks.

Residents are urged to limit outdoor time, reduce or reschedule sports and strenuous activities, and watch for symptoms such as eye, nose and throat irritation, headaches or coughing.

More serious effects like wheezing or chest pain require medical attention.

People most at risk include seniors, pregnant people, infants and young children, those with chronic health conditions, and outdoor workers.

Indoors, officials recommend keeping windows and doors closed where possible and using certified portable air cleaners or clean, high-quality filters in ventilation systems.

During extreme heat events, however, staying cool should be prioritized.

If you must go outside, a well-fitted N95 or equivalent respirator can help reduce exposure to fine particles, though risks may remain.

Residents are also advised to check in on vulnerable neighbours, follow local authority guidance, and monitor real-time updates.

What the experts are saying

Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) told Daily Hive in an earlier interview on Wednesday that the haze is linked to wildfire smoke.

“We’re seeing moderate levels of pollution due to wildfire smoke, particularly bad in the Sea to Sky Corridor,” said Matt Loney, senior program meteorologist with ECCC.

“There is also particulate matter being picked up in the Vancouver area, and we’re monitoring for further developments.”

Metro Vancouver’s Air Quality Health Index hit the “very high risk” range this morning, with AQHI readings of 10+ between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. (Metro Vancouver/weather.gc.ca)

The Province of B.C. has issued an air quality warning for most of the province, including the Okanagan, Thompson and Shuswap. But that provincial system doesn’t cover Metro Vancouver, which issues its own bulletins.

Sea to Sky hit the hardest

The Sea to Sky corridor is seeing the worst of the smoke.

Squamish recorded an air quality index (AQI) reading above 270 this morning; a “very unhealthy” level by international standards, according to IQAir.

Bowen Island and Lions Bay also ranked among the top five most polluted places in Canada today.

Metro Vancouver said that the smoke is likely to become more widespread tomorrow, and hot, sunny weather could also push up smog levels.

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