Air Quality Alert Issued for Harney and Malheur Counties Due to Wildfire Smoke

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The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Alert for Harney and Malheur Counties, effective immediately until noon PDT Wednesday. The alert, announced at 12:45 PM MDT on July 29, 2024, warns of high concentrations of smoke particulates originating from nearby wildfires, significantly impacting air quality in the region.

Residents in the affected areas are advised to take precautions as smoke can irritate the eyes and lungs, and exacerbate certain medical conditions. The groups most at risk include infants, young children, people with heart or lung diseases, older adults, and pregnant women.

Authorities recommend several safety measures during this period of poor air quality:

• Stay Indoors: Keep windows and doors closed to minimize exposure to smoke.
• Limit Outdoor Activities: Avoid strenuous activities outdoors to reduce the risk of inhaling smoke particulates.
• Use Air Purifiers: High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in indoor ventilation systems or portable air purifiers can help reduce indoor air pollution.
• Monitor Air Quality: Stay informed about the latest air quality conditions through the Oregon Smoke Information Blog, DEQ’s Air Quality Index, or the OregonAIR app.

The situation remains dynamic as smoke levels can fluctuate rapidly with changing weather conditions. For real-time updates and additional information, residents are encouraged to visit the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality’s website.

In addition, an Excessive Heat Watch has been issued for Friday afternoon through Friday evening, with temperatures expected to soar between 104 and 108 degrees Fahrenheit. The affected areas include portions of south-central, southwest, and west-central Idaho, as well as northeast and southeast Oregon. This extreme heat poses a significant risk of heat-related illnesses, particularly for those engaged in outdoor activities.

Authorities urge everyone to stay hydrated, avoid direct sunlight, and check on vulnerable neighbors and family members. Pets and young children should never be left unattended in vehicles, as temperatures can quickly reach lethal levels.