If you're looking for a perfect run, today ain't it, Delta, but it's not the worst day to get outside if you know where to go and what to watch out for.

🫁 Lungs & Joints Score?/10
    • Your Lungs Aren't Loving That Ozone: The AQI is sitting at 71 with Ozone as the dominant pollutant. That's moderate, folks. Not "stay inside at all costs" bad, but it means if you're sensitive, have asthma, or plan on pushing hard, your respiratory system might feel it more than usual. Keep that in mind, especially during peak traffic times if you're running near major roads.
    • Trail Closures Are Real (and Annoying): Forget your usual long runs or peaceful walks through some of Delta's gems. Major sections of Deas Island Regional Park are shut down, and the Delta Nature Reserve (our beloved Burns Bog access point) is a no-go for months. Plan alternative routes or risk running into construction fencing and "Do Not Enter" signs.
    • Cool But Beware the Overnight Chill: While 6.9°C and clear skies sound decent, remember that overnight temperatures have been hovering around freezing. Early morning workouts, especially on shaded paths or bridges, could still mean sneaky patches of ice. Don't be that person wiping out on a "clear" day.

Today's Delta Run-Down: Don't Be a Moron

Alright, fellow Delta runners, let's talk brass tacks. It's clear out, which is a blessing considering what January threw at us. But don't let the sun fool you into thinking it's an easy day.

First, that AQI of 71 with ozone. Ozone is a lung irritant, especially when you're sucking wind on a hard effort. If you've got even a hint of a cough or feel tight-chested normally, maybe dial back the intensity or stick to a recovery pace. For the rest of you, just be aware your lungs are working a little harder than ideal. No PRs today, okay?

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Deas Island Regional Park: Tunnel Troubles Continue

Still planning to hit Deas Island? Good luck with that. The George Massey Tunnel replacement project has absolutely decimated access. The Riverside Walk and Island Tip Trail are practically non-existent for public use within the project area, and the Sand Dune Trail is fully closed. Even the west end of the Dyke Loop Trail is blocked. This isn't a temporary inconvenience; these closures are in effect until the project's completion. So, unless your idea of "trail running" involves navigating construction zones and detour signs, find another park. Seriously, you've been warned.

And speaking of closures, the Delta Nature Reserve, your main entry to the Burns Bog Ecological Conservancy Area, is effectively gone for serious exercise. It's been closed for hazard tree removal and boardwalk replacement since January, and they're talking about it potentially staying shut until 2027. Yeah, you read that right. So those tranquil bog walks? Not happening for a while.

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Millennium Trail: Mind the Crews

If you're near Ladner, the Millennium Trail, particularly east of Highway 99, might have intermittent closures today due to geotechnical investigations for the Fraser River Tunnel Project. They'll have signage and traffic control, so keep your head up and follow their directions. This isn't the day to zone out with your headphones on full blast.

Finally, while the daytime temp is a balmy 6.9°C, remember the recent stretch of overnight lows below freezing. Those shaded patches, especially on bike paths, wooden bridges, or poorly drained areas, could still be icy. Don't go flying around a corner on your bike or in your strides only to find a slick surprise. Black ice is a real jerk.

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Construction Around Town

Beyond the trails, watch out for ongoing fibre-optic cable installation along 56 Street and 12 Avenue in Tsawwassen. The Ladner Village revitalization also means work on Chisholm Street. While not trail-specific, these could impact your planned road routes or make navigation trickier if you're cycling or running through those areas.

Stick to known, open routes, stay aware of your surroundings, and maybe give those lungs a break from super high intensity today. This isn't the day to be hero; it's the day to be smart.

Data grounded with various local news sources from February 23-26, 2026.