United States: Poor air quality in Washington state due to Canada wildfires

Event

On Tuesday, August 1, the Washington State Department of Ecology declared air quality unhealthy in north central parts of the state due to smoke moving into Washington from wildfires in British Columbia, Canada. Government officials also warned residents in other areas of the state of increasingly poor air quality conditions; wind is expected to come from the east in the coming days, potentially moving smoke west into the Seattle area, while a heat wave pushes temperatures over 38°C (100°F) across much of the state, exacerbating poor air quality and wildfire conditions.

Context

Wildfires are common in British Columbia and the American West during the hot and dry summer and early autumn months. Rugged terrain and intense dry heat often exacerbate difficulties in controlling fires.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas are advised to adhere to all instructions issued by local authorities and avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Poor air quality conditions can be particularly problematic for vulnerable individuals, such as children, seniors, pregnant women, and people suffering from asthma or other respiratory issues. If experiencing breathing difficulties, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Monitor air quality ratings on the Washington State Department of Ecology website.