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UPDATE: Air quality advisory extended for Klamath, Lake, Jackson counties

QUICK FACTS

Location: Klamath, Lake, Jackson counties
End date: Wednesday midday, possibly longer
Smoke source: Fires in Southern Oregon

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality extended an air quality advisory for Klamath, Lake and Jackson counties through Wednesday midday due to smoke from fires in Southern Oregon.

** Información en español **

Air quality should remain good in most of Jackson County today, but the northeastern part of the county is experiencing unhealthy levels of smoke. Tomorrow, the entire county is likely to experience smoke. Klamath and Lake counties also continue to experience unhealthy levels of smoke.

Central Oregon saw dense smoke last night, but it is dissipating, and air quality should continue to improve today.

Smoke levels can change rapidly depending on weather. Check current conditions on the Oregon Smoke Information Blog, DEQ’s Air Quality Index, or by downloading the free OregonAIR app on your smartphone.

Smoke can irritate the eyes and lungs and worsen some medical conditions. People most at risk include infants and young children, people with heart or lung disease, older adults and pregnant women.

Protect yourself and your family when smoke levels are high:
  • Stay inside if possible. Keep windows and doors closed.
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
  • Use high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in indoor ventilation systems or portable air purifiers. Or create your own air purifying filter by following these instructions.
  • Be aware of smoke in your area and avoid places with the highest levels.
  • If you have heart or lung disease or asthma, follow your healthcare provider’s advice.
Cloth, dust and surgical masks don’t protect from the harmful particles in smoke. N95 or P100 respirators approved by NIOSH may offer protection, but they must be properly fitted and worn. They won’t work for everyone, especially children. People with heart or lung conditions should consult their doctor before wearing a respirator. Get more information about protecting your health during wildfires.

To find a cleaner air space in your area: Visit 211info.org and click the “clean air” list at the top of the page or use the Find Resources to search for clean air. You may also call 211 or 1-866-698-6155, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week.

Media contact: Laura Gleim, laura.gleim@deq.state.or.us, 503-577-3697

Tribal and local contacts:

Skyline Ridge Complex, Douglas County, photo credit: U.S. Forest Service