Home / Environment / Oregon Wildfire Smoke Chokes Air Quality Statewide
Oregon Wildfire Smoke Chokes Air Quality Statewide
18 Jul
Summary
- Air quality advisory issued for seven Oregon counties due to wildfire smoke.
- Poor air quality expected to persist throughout the weekend and until July 20.
- Health officials advise protecting yourself from harmful smoke particles.
Much of Oregon is currently under an air quality advisory due to widespread wildfire smoke. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued warnings for seven counties, with expectations of intermittent smoke in five additional ones. This situation is impacting popular tourist destinations across the state.
The advisory is in effect for counties including Jackson, Klamath, and Wallowa, with intermittent smoke anticipated in others. Health officials predict these poor air quality conditions will continue through the weekend and potentially until the afternoon of July 20. Major fires in southern and central Oregon are contributing to the smoke.
Wildfire smoke contains harmful components like fine particulate matter, which can be deeply inhaled and enter the bloodstream. Air quality is rated on a scale from good to hazardous. As of the afternoon of July 17, some areas were experiencing 'very unhealthy' or 'unhealthy' air quality. Health officials are providing guidance on how to protect oneself during these events.
