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Oregon Air Quality Unhealthy: Stay Indoors!
1 Dec
Summary
- Thousands in Oregon advised to stay indoors due to unhealthy air.
- Fine particle pollution (PM2.5) is causing the dangerous air quality.
- Air quality levels are 'unhealthy' in La Pine and 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' in Bend.
Parts of Oregon, notably La Pine in Deschutes County, are experiencing "unhealthy" air quality, prompting thousands to be advised to avoid outdoor activities. The elevated pollution levels are attributed to fine particulate matter (PM2.5), particles smaller than a human hair that can be easily inhaled and cause health problems.
The Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) AirNow map indicated an "unhealthy" air quality index (AQI) score of 161 in La Pine. Surrounding areas, including Bend, recorded an AQI of 136, classified as "unhealthy for Sensitive Groups." These conditions pose risks, particularly for vulnerable populations like the elderly, children, and individuals with existing respiratory or heart conditions.
Health advisories recommend limiting outdoor exertion and seeking indoor environments, especially for sensitive groups, until air quality improves. The EPA highlights that particle pollution exposure is linked to numerous health issues, and even healthy individuals may experience temporary symptoms such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath.
