The Benton Clean Air Agency issued an Air Quality Alert this morning as wildfire smoke from regional fires settles over Benton County, and it could last all week.
The air outside smells like a campfire, and the sky has that familiar hazy orange tint.
The current Air Quality Index for the Tri-Cities area this morning was Moderate, but officials are warning people to prepare for potentially unhealthy levels increasing this week.
Officials Warn These People Need to Be Most Careful
Not everyone feels smoke the same way, and some residents need to take this more seriously than others right now. Sensitive groups include older adults, children, anyone who works or exercises outdoors, and people with heart conditions or respiratory issues like asthma, bronchitis, or emphysema.
If you fall into any of those categories, stay inside as much as possible and limit any outdoor physical activity entirely. This is not a day for a morning run, yard work, or youth sports practice outdoors.
The AQI numbers are being driven by PM2.5, a particulate matter that is smaller than 2.5 microns. They are small enough to get deep into your lungs and cause real harm. Also, burning eyes, runny nose, and aggravated heart and lung conditions are all common symptoms during elevated smoke events.
The fire danger is still at EXTREME across our region, and fire conditions can change rapidly and without much warning.
Tips to Protect Yourself and Your Family Indoors from Wildfire Smoke
Close your windows and keep them closed. If you have an air conditioner, set it to recirculate indoor air rather than pulling outside air in.
Use an indoor air purifier if you have one. If you do not have air conditioning and your home gets too warm, you can go to a public library or community center where the air is filtered and conditioned.
N95 or N100 masks can provide some protection if you need to go outside, and are available at most hardware stores. Make sure you check with your doctor first if you have a heart or lung condition before relying on a mask.
Changing Weather May Bring Relief by Next Week
The Benton Clean Air Agency noted that changing weather conditions may improve air quality by the end of the week.
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