Wildfire Smoke Reaches Puget Sound; Air Quality Declared Unhealthy

CURRENT STATUS

Wildfires burning in eastern Washington have sent a thick blanket of smoke over Puget Sound, prompting air quality alerts. The smoke has reached unhealthy levels in parts of the region, including Seattle, Tacoma, and Bellevue. The Washington Department of Ecology has issued an air quality advisory for the entire Puget Sound region.

HEALTH CONCERNS

Smoke from wildfires can contain harmful pollutants, such as particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen oxides. These pollutants can cause a variety of health problems, including respiratory irritation, coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. People with asthma, heart disease, or other lung conditions are particularly vulnerable to the effects of smoke.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to stay indoors and avoid strenuous activity. You should also keep your windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering your home.

AIR QUALITY FORECAST

The air quality forecast for the Puget Sound region is expected to remain unhealthy through the day. The smoke is expected to linger in the region for several days, depending on the weather conditions. The Washington Department of Ecology will continue to monitor the air quality and issue updates as needed.

RECOMMENDATIONS

To protect your health, the Washington Department of Ecology recommends the following: