The National Weather Service (“NWS”) is extending an air quality alert for the Yakima area through Saturday, August 12th. It was previously extended through tomorrow, Wednesday.
The alert is due to smoke from wildfires in Eastern Washington, British Columbia, and Montana, NWS officials said. Northeast winds are pushing smoke through the area and air quality could be unhealthy.
Pollutants in smoke can cause burning eyes, runny nose, and aggravate serious health problems such as heart and lung diseases. Children, the elderly and individuals with respiratory illnesses are most at risk of serious health effects.
NWS officials advise limiting outdoor activities and keeping children indoors during times of poor air quality. Anyone who experiences respiratory distress should speak with their physician.
This morning, NWS officials also announced another heat advisory for the Yakima area through this Thursday, August 10th. Temperatures are expected to reach 105 degrees, they said.
As with the previous heat advisory issued last week, officials said the combination of hot temperatures and low humidity will create a situation in which heat illnesses are possible.
Weather officials encourage residents to schedule strenuous activities over the next few days in the early morning or evening during the heat advisory. The NWS advisory also suggests residents take extra precautions such as drinking plenty of fluids, staying out of the sun and checking up on relatives and neighbors.
Air quality, heat alerts extended for Yakima Area – News Release