An Air Quality Alert is in effect due to strong, shifting winds expected Saturday evening. These winds will carry wildfire smoke and dust to the area, which may result in unhealthy air quality.
Additionally, the National Weather Service has issued a Red Flag Warning for the Spokane area due to extreme fire weather conditions on Saturday. Low relative humidity paired with high heat and strong winds will not only raise the risk of fire danger, but may also bring dust to our area.
It is not uncommon for Spokane’s air quality to be affected by both dust and smoke during windy conditions, especially during the summer fire season. However, no matter what the pollutant, when the AQI is high, it’s important to take precautions to protect your health.
Dust is made up of tiny particles called particulate matter or PM10. PM10 particles measure 10 micrometers in diameter and smaller (a human hair measures 50-70 micrometers in diameter!) The health-based standard for PM10 is 150 micrograms per cubic meter of air (µg/m3) averaged from midnight to midnight. When inhaled, PM10 particles can settle into the lungs and can irritate or damage sensitive tissues in the respiratory system. PM10 is measured at two monitoring sites: Augusta & Fiske and Broadway & Glenn, see our monitoring map.
Smoke is a complex mix of gases and fine particles. The particles in smoke, referred to as fine particulate matter (PM2.5), are also harmful to human health. These particles measure 2.5 micrometers in diameter or smaller. When inhaled, PM2.5 settles deep in the lungs damaging delicate lung tissue. They can also enter the bloodstream. PM2.5 is measured at every monitor and sensor site on our monitoring map.
Protect yourself and those in your care when it’s smoky or dusty outside:
- Check the current air quality.
- Visit SmokeReadySpokane.org for information and resources.
- Limit time outside and avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
- Watch for sudden changes in visibility while driving.
- Avoid driving during windy conditions when windblown dust is likely.
- Turn on vehicle headlights as a safety precaution during windblown dust events.
Pictured: Airway Heights Walmart during September 2024 dust storm. Photos credited to National Weather Service Spokane.
