Air quality advisory lifted for eastern Lane County

The Lane Regional Air Protection Agency (LRAPA) has lifted the air quality advisory for eastern Lane County that has been in effect since July 26, 2024. After 17 days of heightened concern due to wildfire smoke, a shift in weather patterns has brought a welcome improvement to air quality in the region.

A persistent northwest airflow across the state has been instrumental in clearing smoke from the area. While this is good news, LRAPA reminds residents that wildfire season is not over, and conditions can change rapidly.

For the next few days, LRAPA expects air quality in eastern Lane County, including areas such as Oakridge and the McKenzie River Valley, to remain in the Moderate range overall. Some periods of Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups (USG) conditions may occur at midday, particularly in river valleys where smoke may linger until morning inversions lift. The best air quality is anticipated during late evening hours.

The National Weather Service forecasts a cooling trend with increasing morning clouds. This weather pattern is expected to help dampen ongoing wildfire activity and further improve air quality conditions.

Current air quality conditions can be checked on the Oregon Smoke Information Blog or by visiting the EPA’s Fire & Smoke Map: https://fire.airnow.gov/

While the advisory has been lifted, smoke can still irritate the eyes and lungs and worsen some medical conditions. People most at risk include infants and young children, people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and pregnant individuals. LRAPA advises residents to remain vigilant and take precautions when air quality deteriorates:

* Stay inside if possible. Keep windows and doors closed. If it’s too hot, run air conditioning on recirculate or consider moving to a cooler location.

* Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.

* Use high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters in indoor ventilation systems or portable air purifiers.

* Be aware of smoke in your area and avoid places with the highest levels.

* When air quality improves to moderate or healthy (yellow or green on the Air Quality Index), open windows and doors to air out homes and businesses.

* If you have a breathing plan for a medical condition, be sure to follow it and keep any needed medications refilled.

Cloth, dust, and surgical masks don’t protect from the harmful particles in smoke. N95 or P100 respirators approved by NIOSH may offer protection, but they must be properly selected and worn. Select a NIOSH-approved respirator with an N, R, or P alongside the number 95, 99, or 100. Learn how to put on and use a respirator. Respirators won’t work for children as they don’t come in children’s sizes. People with heart or lung conditions should consult their healthcare provider before wearing a respirator.