Particle.news

Download on the App Store

Central Oregon and PortlandWillamette Valley Under Air-Quality Alerts Through Monday

Health agencies urge residents to limit exposure during a weekend stretch of unhealthy air.

Image
The northern line of the Patton Meadow Fire blazes over a ridgeline on August 16, 2021 near Lakeview, Oregon.

Overview

  • The National Weather Service issued a smoke-related alert for Crook, Deschutes and Jefferson counties in effect until 5 p.m. Monday, citing unhealthy conditions from regional wildfires.
  • The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency announced an ozone advisory for Portland and the Willamette Valley from 10 a.m. Saturday to 8 p.m. Monday.
  • Officials warn that pollutants can irritate eyes and airways and can aggravate heart and lung diseases, with guidance to limit outdoor activity and keep children indoors if it is smoky.
  • The DEQ advisory attributes Central Oregon smoke to the Flat Fire near Lake Billy Chinook, which was reported at roughly 3,300 acres and is affecting air quality depending on wind and conditions.
  • Residents are urged to avoid open burning, reduce use of vehicles and gas-powered equipment, and monitor updates via NOAA Weather Radio or preferred weather sources.