Smoke fills the air, again

POMEROY–Air quality is dismal due to 160 surrounding forest and wild fires in Northern California, west and northeast Oregon, west and northeast Washington, Canada, most of Idaho and Montana.

According to Fox weather, the combination of low humidity, gusty winds and drought conditions have set the stage for fires to spread rapidly. Smoke and ash from these fires have created poor air quality, and is considered unhealthy. An advisory alert has been issued.

In addition, Fox Weather reported there has been an increase of hospitalization of those with respiratory conditions such as asthma, heart and lung conditions and young children.

The largest fire near Columbia and Garfield Counties is the Double Creek Fire located in eastern Oregon along the Snake River and has consumed more than 155,297 acres. Other fires of concern are Boulder Mountain in the northeast corner of Washington, and Bolt Creek east of Seattle. Both fires are only two percent contained. The Cedar Creek fire in central Oregon is also contributing to the declining air quality.

The wind is expected to change to the east come Tuesday and temperatures are expected to remain in the 80s continuing optimal fire conditions.

No further information was available at the time of printing.