Air Quality Alert Issued Amid Wildfire Smoke in Western Washington
An Air Quality Alert has been issued for seven counties in western Washington as wildfire smoke continues to degrade air quality in the region. The Air Quality Index (AQI), a standardized measure for pollutants, is being used to assess the health risks posed by the current conditions. The AQI evaluates multiple pollutants, including PM2.5 (fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke), ozone, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, and nitrogen dioxide, converting their concentrations into a single health-risk score. Current AQI levels in some areas have reached unhealthy levels, with hazy skies reported across the region. Additionally, a Heat Advisory is in effect for most of western Washington, with temperatures reaching 83°F (28°C) today and expected to rise to 86°F (30°C) on Thursday.