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Oregon Air Quality Unhealthy: Stay Indoors!
3 Feb
Summary
- Unhealthy PM2.5 levels advised residents to stay indoors.
- Vulnerable groups urged to avoid outdoor activities.
- Fine particle pollution can penetrate lungs and bloodstream.
As of Tuesday, February 3, 2026, residents in parts of southwestern Oregon, such as La Pine, received advisories to remain indoors due to "unhealthy" levels of fine particle pollution (PM2.5). The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlighted that PM2.5, consisting of particles 2.5 micrometers or smaller, can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.
The EPA recommends that everyone, especially the elderly, children, and individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions, minimize outdoor exposure. Vulnerable groups are advised to avoid strenuous activities and consider rescheduling them indoors. All other residents should also reduce the intensity and duration of outdoor pursuits.
The specific origin of the elevated PM2.5 levels has not been determined by the EPA, but common sources include wildfire smoke, industrial emissions, and vehicle exhaust. The agency encourages affected individuals to monitor the AirNow Map for the latest updates on air quality conditions.
