Wildfire smoke continues to move into the Seattle area today (Saturday, September 10). A new fire, the Bolt Creek Fire near Skykomish, is sending additional smoke to Seattle. Air quality is now Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups in most areas and Unhealthy for everyone in some areas. Track air quality in your area.
- Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is less likely to be affected. The following sensitive groups should especially take precautions: infants, children, and people over 65, or those who are pregnant, have heart or lung diseases (such as asthma or COPD), respiratory infections, diabetes, stroke survivors, or are suffering from COVID-19.
- Unhealthy: Some members of the general public may experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.
Avoid health effects from smoke by reducing time spent outdoors, especially activities like running, biking, and physical labor. Stay home if you can. You can improve the air quality indoors with a simple DIY Box Fan Air Filter (WA Department of Ecology YouTube).
Check with your health care provider for more specific health questions and concerns about the effects of smoke. Seek medical attention if symptoms are serious.
Air quality monitors and information:
- Puget Sound Clean Air Agency
- AirNow.gov Seattle Air Quality Monitors and Forecast
- AirNow.gov Fire and Smoke Map
Safety and preparedness information:
- Be Prepared for Wildfire Smoke (Puget Sound Clean Air Agency)
- Safety Tips and Resources for Wildfire Smoke (City of Seattle)
- Wildfire Smoke Preparedness (King County)
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