Oregon Smoke Information

Issued:  Aug. 30, 2017 Forecaster.  R. Graw, USDA Forest Service The upper level trough will move out of the state on Thursday, and a ridge of high pressure will begin to build in on Thursday and remain throughout the weekend. This will bring the return of hot, dry weather, and the associated increase in fire activity and smoke production. Assuming we don’t get any new fire starts, the smoke will continue to affect the areas which have been inundated with smoke already --  Southwestern Oregon, the Cascades, and the eastern slope of the Cascades from Klamath Falls north to Redmond. Other areas will be affected depending upon transport winds, as described below. Thursday Aug. 31, 2017 A northeast wind will occur on the west side of the Cascades, which will keep smoke out of the Willamette Valley, and all but the southwest coast. The Columbia Gorge and Mountain Hood National Forest will also have good air quality. Unfortunately, the Rogue Valley is not lik...

An often-asked question as unhealthy air quality persists in much of Oregon is whether masks offer any protection. As is often the case, the answer is: It depends. Ma sks can create a false sense of security if not properly selected, fitted and used. Don't expect surgical masks, bandanas, cloth diapers (really, my dad always had one handy for mowing), or other common masks to protect you from smoke exposure. Specialized masks called “respirators” might be of some benefit if properly selected, fitted, and used . The challenge is that respirators need to be the right size and worn the right way to be effective, and that is difficult for many people to do. This means that people who haven’t had help making sure the respirator fits and that they’re using it right might still be exposed to smoke -- even if they are wearing it. Most people will find it difficult to use respirators. They can be hard to use in a way that actually protects against smoke because:   First...

County public health officials want to remind people across the state to take precautions as smoke from multiple wildfires around Oregon and Washington affects the air quality.   The combination of high temperatures and wildfire smoke around the area may increase the risk of illness especially for older adults, young children, and people with asthma, respiratory, or heart conditions.   Public health officials urge all residents to take the following precautions to avoid health problems during hot, smoky conditions. Reduce the amount of time spent outdoors. This can usually provide some protection, especially in a tightly closed, air-conditioned house in which the air conditioner can be set to re-circulate air instead of bringing in outdoor air. Reduce the amount of time engaged in vigorous outdoor physical activity. This can be an important and effective strategy to decrease exposure to inhaled air pollutants and minimize health risks during a smoke event. Reduce ot...