Wildfire smoke has led to multiple days of exceedances of the National Ambient Air Quality Standard for PM2.5 (particle matter measuring 2.5 microns in diameter and smaller) so far this season. The standard is a 24-hour average, midnight to midnight, of 35 micrograms per cubic meter of air or an AQI of 100.
Sunday, August 9, marked the eighth consecutive day of unhealthy air quality; in July there were three days. The highest daily AQI so far was July 17, with an AQI of 206/Very Unhealthy.
To view a running list of PM2.5 exceedance days, concentration/AQI, and causes since 1999, click here.
Spokane County, like much of Central and Eastern Washington areas, has been in an Air Quality Alert for several days due to smoke from regional fires. As a result of the current active fires, Spokane County’s air quality has stayed steadily in the AQI-USG or above range for multiple days. The forecast predicts that wildfire smoke (PM2.5) will continue to impact much of the region for several days.
It is important to protect yourself and those in your care when it’s smoky outside.
- Check the current air quality.
- Visit SmokeReadySpokane.org for information and resources to improve your indoor air quality.
- Limit or avoid time outside.
- If you have to be outside, avoid strenuous activity, take frequent breaks, and stay hydrated.
- Check in on friends and neighbors.
