Seattle Wildfire Smoke Air Quality

Air Quality in Seattle Degraded Due to Wildfire Smoke

Air Quality Concerns and Recommendations

Seattle residents have been experiencing poor air quality in recent days due to smoke from wildfires burning in the region. The Washington State Department of Ecology has issued an air quality advisory for the Puget Sound region, urging residents to take precautions to protect their health.

Health Impacts of Wildfire Smoke

Wildfire smoke contains harmful pollutants, including particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide. These pollutants can irritate the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, and can lead to respiratory problems, especially in people with asthma or other lung conditions.

Exposure to wildfire smoke can also increase the risk of cardiovascular problems, such as heart attacks and strokes. Children, the elderly, and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to the effects of wildfire smoke.

Air Quality Monitoring and Forecasting

The Washington State Department of Ecology monitors air quality throughout the state, and provides real-time air quality data on its website. Residents can check the air quality forecast for their area to determine when it is safe to be outdoors.

Recommendations for Protecting Health

During periods of poor air quality, residents are advised to take precautions to protect their health. These recommendations include:

Staying indoors as much as possible. When outdoors, wear a mask to reduce exposure to smoke particles.
Using an air purifier in your home. Air purifiers can remove smoke particles from the air.
Avoiding strenuous outdoor activity. Exercise increases the amount of air you breathe in, which can lead to increased exposure to smoke particles.
Drinking plenty of fluids. Staying hydrated helps to keep your mucus membranes moist, which can help to protect your lungs from smoke particles.