Issued 4 March 2019 – 13.00 Hrs
Environment Protection Authority Victoria (EPA) advises that smoke from bushfires in Gippsland is affecting air quality especially in the Latrobe Valley, and residents should take necessary precautions to protect their health.
Air quality conditions will be variable, so it is important that residents stay aware of conditions in their local area and take the appropriate measures.
As of this morning, air quality at Morwell South and Churchill is unhealthy for all groups, and for sensitive groups anywhere else in the Latrobe Valley, including older people, pregnant women and anyone with a pre-existing health condition. Low winds through Monday evening/Tuesday morning are expected to intensify smoky conditions in the Latrobe Valley.
Conditions overall are then expected to improve on Tuesday afternoon, as a cooler wind change moves into the area.
To see live readings from EPA air quality monitoring stations in Gippsland, including Buchan in the far east where EPA has deployed a mobile air quality monitoring unit, visit AirWatch: www.epa.vic.gov.au/our-work/monitoring-the-environment/epa-airwatch
If you can smell smoke, please note:
Smoke can affect people's health.
People over 65, children 14 years and younger, pregnant women and those with existing heart or lung conditions should reduce prolonged or heavy physical activity. Where possible, these people should also limit the time spent outdoors.
Anyone with a heart or lung condition should take their medication as prescribed by their doctor.
People with asthma should follow their asthma management plan.
Health information:
If you need medical advice for exposure to smoke, seek medical advice or call Nurse on Call on 1300 606
