Drainage
flows from the east have brought the wildfire smoke back into Lane County overnight.
Air quality monitors in Eugene are seeing spikes into the “Unhealthy for
Sensitive Groups” levels Friday morning. The Lane Regional Air Protection
Agency is issuing an air quality advisory from Friday 9 a.m. until Sunday 6 p.m.
Wildfire
smoke is more prominent this time of year, and the high temperatures have
elevated fire danger around the state.
“Residents
who are sensitive to smoke are advised to use caution when participating in
outdoor activities or to wait out the smoke for a couple days,” said Jo
Niehaus, spokesperson for the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency. “We are
expecting more smoke impacts until Sunday when rain is predicted.”
Fine
particles from smoke called PM 2.5 are easily inhaled and enter the bloodstream
and lungs. It can aggravate existing respiratory and cardiovascular conditions
and is especially harmful to children and seniors.
LRAPA’s
monitors are updated hourly and can be followed here: http://www.lrapa.org/216/Todays-Current-Air-Quality
For More Information, Contact:
Jo Niehaus, 541-736-1056 ext. 217
LRAPA Public Affairs Manager