Air quality reaches ‘very unhealthy’ levels, but when will it clear in Tacoma?
Having trouble breathing normally? It’s not just you. As wildfires continue spreading across the West Coast, a giant wave of smoke has settled in Western Washington, creating worsening air quality that is likely to linger for days.
Air quality has reached “unhealthy” to “very unhealthy” levels across Western Washington.
The Washington Air Quality Index rated the air quality between 244 and 274 in the Tacoma area as of 10 a.m. Saturday, which is considered “very unhealthy.” Air quality which is considered “good” is in the 0-50 range.
The Puget Sound Clean Air Agency advised people to stay inside this weekend. The Washington State Department of Health advised residents to be prepared.
“Breathing in wildfire smoke can cause symptoms that are relatively minor, such as eye, nose, and throat irritation, and also more dangerous symptoms like wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath,” the department stated in a release. “The best way to protect yourself from smoky air is to stay inside and keep your indoor air clean by improving filtration and creating a clean air room in your home.”
To reduce the intake of smoke into your home:
Close windows and doors when it’s smoky outside, and open windows to let in fresh air during times when there’s better air quality outside.
Set air conditioners to re-circulate.
Avoid burning candles/incense, smoking, broiling/frying foods, and vacuuming, as these can add to indoor pollution.
Use a portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter
Build your own box fan filter
According to the National Weather Service, southwesterly winds will continue to bring smoke off the Washington coast from fires in Oregon into the area through the weekend. The Washington Department of Ecology said clearing won’t start until Sunday for Western Washington and Monday for Eastern Washington.
This story was originally published September 12, 2020 at 10:35 AM.
