Unhealthy Air Descends on Rogue Valley Communities This Evening

Medford, Oregon- Wildfire smoke from the nearby Kelsey Peak Fire continues to degrade air quality across the Rogue Valley, affecting residents from Medford to Grants Pass tonight.

According to real-time data from IQAir, the updated 11:30p air-quality (AQI) levels across the region show mounting concern:

• Medford: AQI 128 – Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups

• Ashland: AQI 147 – Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups

• Talent: AQI 110 – Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups

• Rogue River: AQI 108 – Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups

• Central Point: AQI 100 – Upper Moderate, nearing Unhealthy

• Phoenix: AQI 95 – Moderate

• Jacksonville: AQI 92 – Moderate

• White City: AQI 90 – Moderate

• Grants Pass: AQI 57- Moderate

The Kelsey Peak Fire, burning in steep terrain nearby, continues to emit dense smoke plumes that are being carried across the Rogue Valley, intensifying air pollution.

Health officials urge caution, especially for those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, young children, pregnant individuals, and older adults.

Reducing outdoor activities. Keeping windows and doors closed. Running indoor air purifiers if available. Wearing NIOSH-approved N95 respirators when outdoors if air quality is moderate or worse.