As Surrey faces growth and wildfire smoke, air pollution is rising. Learn how it impacts your health and what actions residents can take in 2025.
Air Quality Becomes a Growing Concern
Surrey’s rapid urban development and recurring wildfire smoke have made air quality a key health issue in 2025. With more vehicles, construction, and forest fire smoke drifting into the Lower Mainland, residents are increasingly exposed to pollutants that can trigger respiratory and cardiovascular problems.
Urban Expansion Fuels Local Pollution
Surrey’s booming population—now among the fastest-growing in Canada—brings more cars, infrastructure, and construction dust. High-traffic corridors like Highway 1 and King George Boulevard emit elevated levels of nitrogen dioxide and fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Industrial activities near ports and new developments in Clayton and South Surrey also contribute to smog-like conditions.
Wildfire Smoke Makes an Annual Impact
In recent summers, wildfire smoke from across British Columbia and Alberta has worsened air quality in Surrey. In 2023 and 2024 alone, the city recorded more than 15 high-risk days on the Air Quality Health Index (AQHI). These smoky conditions can linger for days, reducing visibility and increasing respiratory complaints.
Who Faces the Greatest Health Risks
Vulnerable populations are most at risk from poor air quality. Children with asthma, seniors with COPD, pregnant individuals, and those with pre-existing heart conditions may experience flare-ups or breathing difficulties. Even healthy individuals have reported symptoms such as fatigue, coughing, and irritated eyes during high-smoke periods.
Health Impacts Are Measurable and Serious
Fraser Health and Health Canada warn that repeated exposure to polluted air can cause lasting harm. PM2.5 particles, in particular, penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream, contributing to:
- Increased asthma attacks and ER visits
- Lung development issues in children
- Long-term cardiovascular stress
- Elevated cancer risk from chronic exposure
Local physicians report noticeable spikes in respiratory illness during wildfire season and peak traffic periods.
What Residents Can Do to Stay Safe
Health experts recommend several steps Surrey residents can take:
- Check the AQHI daily using BC Air Quality or WeatherCAN apps
- Stay indoors with windows shut during smoke events
- Use HEPA air purifiers, especially in homes with vulnerable individuals
- Limit outdoor exercise on high-risk days (AQHI 7 or above)
- Wear N95 masks if you must be outdoors during poor air quality periods
- Set up a “clean air room” with filtered air and minimal pollutants
How the City of Surrey Is Responding
The municipal government is acting to reduce long-term pollution:
- Green Infrastructure Plan: Expanding urban tree cover to naturally filter air
- Idle-Free Zones: Reducing vehicle emissions around schools and public buildings
- Air Monitoring Stations: Data from Central and South Surrey helps inform public health advisories
- Cleaner Transit Initiatives: Encouraging walking, cycling, and electric transit through citywide infrastructure upgrades
Shared Responsibility for Cleaner Air
While wildfires are a provincial concern, many air quality issues in Surrey are local and preventable. Through better urban planning, stricter emissions controls, and public engagement, the city aims to reduce its environmental footprint.
For individuals, awareness and preparedness are key. With simple daily precautions and long-term investment in cleaner habits, Surrey residents can safeguard their health and contribute to a more breathable city for future generations.
