Smoke from Central Oregon fires expected to impact air quality

CENTRAL OREGON (KTVZ) -- Smoke from several active wildfires is expected to bring unhealthy air quality to parts of Central Oregon, with the heaviest periods forecast during morning and overnight hours.

Smoke in the region is expected to come primarily from the Rowe Creek Complex. Additional smoke from the Grasshopper Fire could affect Spray and Ukiah in the afternoon, while the Shingle Fire could bring added smoke impacts to Paulina in the evening.

Hot and dry conditions are expected to continue into Sunday, keeping fire activity active and contributing to another day of unhealthy air quality across the region. Periods of unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups are also possible during the afternoon and evening.

Residents are urged to reduce outdoor exposure, avoid strenuous activity and consider using an N95 respirator. People driving through smoky areas should keep windows closed and set their vehicle air conditioning to recirculate mode.

To limit indoor smoke exposure, residents should close doors and windows and create a cleaner-air room inside their homes.

For current air quality information, visit AirNow’s fire and smoke map.