2025-03: Air Quality and Wildfire Smoke

Air Quality and Wildfire Smoke

East Wenatchee, WA – The Pomas Fire is impacting air quality conditions in our area. Public health officials are advising residents in Chelan and Douglas counties to stay indoors during periods of unhealthy air quality.

Air Resource Specialist Nathan Santo Domingo advises that windy conditions and high fire danger are expected once again on Wednesday.  Temperatures will trend downward throughout the remainder of the week, with dry conditions persisting into Friday.  Smoke from the Pomas Fire will be variable and dependent on fire behavior and how it influences overnight drainage down the Entiat River Valley.

Chelan-Douglas Health District (CDHD) urges residents to stay informed about current air quality conditions to avoid negative health impacts. Smoke from wildfires can cause health problems, even in healthy individuals. Symptoms related to unhealthy air quality may include:

·        Watery or dry eyes

·        Coughing/wheezing

·        Throat or sinus irritation

·        Shortness of breath

·        Headaches

·        Irregular heartbeat

·        Chest pain

If you are experiencing serious symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

The best way to protect yourself from wildfire smoke is to stay indoors and keep your indoor air clean by improving ventilation and using air purifiers during wildfire smoke events.

If you must go outside during poor air quality conditions, respirator masks labeledN-95 or N-100 can provide some protection. Visit an N95 mask distribution site near you. If you need relief from wildfire smoke, please visit www.ncwlibraries.org for a complete list of libraries and hours for the cleaner air shelters.

To find the latest wildfire and local air quality information visit the Washington Smoke Blog and follow Chelan County Emergency Management on Facebook for official fire evacuation information.  

For more public health updates, visit www.cdhd.wa.gov and follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.