The movement of wildfire smoke is notoriously hard to predict, but with fires to north, south, and east of ORCAA’s six-county jurisdiction (Clallam, Grays Harbor, Jefferson, Mason, Pacific, and Thurston), there is a good possibility that some of our communities could see elevated levels of air pollution later this week.
Most of the region will see high-level smoke overhead in the coming days, but where and when some of that smoke descends into our neighborhoods is unclear. Given the geography of ORCAA’s jurisdiction – waterways on three sides, and a massive mountain range in the center – the upcoming variable surface winds are likely to shift and move that wildfire smoke in unpredictably ways.
ORCAA staff will monitor the situation continually and report out updated news as it develops. But residents can also keep on eye on ORCAA’s air monitoring network and plan their activities on the those real-time readings. Should local air quality monitors show elevated PM pollution levels, anyone with breathing difficulties or existing cardiovascular issues should stay indoors when possible and take additional precautions as warranted. Anyone experiencing breathing difficulties should consult with their health care providers.
ORCAA’s air quality monitoring network can be viewed here: https://www.www.orcaa.org/air-quality/current-air-quality/
To address concerns about health impacts of wildfire smoke, and how best to cope with these events in a healthful manner, visit the Washington Department of Health website at: https://www.doh.wa.gov/CommunityandEnvironment/AirQuality/SmokeFromFires
For more information on the formation of SAO, visit https://wasmoke.blogspot.com/2021/06/it-isnt-wildfire-smoke-in-western-wa.html
