AIR QUALITY ALERT IN EFFECT UNTIL 5 AM THURSDAY
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Pollution Advisory in effect until 5a Thursday..
The DEQ also issued an ozone advisory for the Medford-Ashland areas due to elevated levels of ozone pollution, or smog. Smoke from the Flat Fire is combining with hot temperatures in these areas to produce smog.
The Flat Fire near Agness combined with periods of westerly winds will cause smoke concentrations to increase to the east. Air Quality is expected to reach unhealthy levels at times in southern Curry and Josephine County and Jackson County, but can fluctuate depending on the weather. Check current conditions on the Oregon Smoke Information Blog oregonsmoke.org, DEQs Air Quality Index, or by downloading the free OregonAIR app on your smartphone.
Smoke can 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 people.
Protect yourself and your family when smoke levels are high: Stay inside if possible. Keep windows and doors closed. If its too hot, run air conditioning on recirculate or consider moving to a cooler location. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
Use a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter in indoor ventilation systems or portable air purifiers.
Be aware of smoke in your area and avoid places with the highest levels. If you have a breathing plan for a medical condition, be sure to follow it and keep any needed medications refilled.
Source: NWS
