Harrison Hot Springs is becoming a popular destination for tourists seeking relief from the smoky conditions caused by wildfires in British Columbia. Jane Smith, a visitor from Penticton, mentioned that the smoky environment in her hometown prompted her to travel to Harrison Hot Springs for clearer air. Mayor Fred Talen also noted an increase in visitors, including individuals from Washington state, the Okanagan, and the Lower Mainland, seeking better air quality.
Although specific statistics are not available, Tourism Harrison River Valley reported receiving feedback from accommodation providers indicating a rise in bookings. The Harrison Grand Motel, for instance, experienced a 15% increase in reservations compared to the previous year, with Supervisor Bryon Mason attributing this growth to people seeking refuge from wildfire smoke.
Visitors like Laura Wait expressed gratitude for the clean air in Harrison Hot Springs, emphasizing the opportunity to enjoy outdoor activities without smoke hindrances. Other regions in the Fraser Valley, such as Chilliwack and Squamish, are also observing an influx of tourists escaping smoky conditions elsewhere in the province.
Despite the temporary respite, air quality in the eastern Fraser Valley has deteriorated due to drifting wildfire smoke, posing health risks. The B.C. Ministry of Environment’s Air Quality Health Index has rated the area as a very high health risk. This situation has led individuals like Patrick Olsen to explore alternative locations, such as Chilliwack, for activities like running. Fire Chief Aaron Foote of Squamish highlighted increased summer traffic attributed to backcountry restrictions and the ongoing wildfire crisis in the interior regions of British Columbia.