Bad air quality continues to hang over Puget Sound region
Oct 10, 2022, 5:12 PM
Space needle dominates smoky skies over Seattle. (Photo by George Rose/Getty Images)
(Photo by George Rose/Getty Images)
Air over the Puget Sound remains smoky and problematic because of area wildfires, several weather sources reported Monday.
KIRO 7 meteorologist Nick Allard said the air ranges from unhealthy for sensitive groups to just plain unhealthy. “A weak cold front is moving into British Columbia, but we’ll get the southern portion of the front,” Allard writes. “I don’t expect much moisture besides a few random sprinkles or some light showers in the Cascades.
“We could see some showers in a convergence zone late today. However, this front will move in fresh ocean air and help improve the air quality throughout the day and into tonight and tomorrow. Highs today will be above average in the upper-60s and lower-70s. Average for today is 63.”
Find air quality for your neighborhood with this map from Puget Sound Clean Air
Accuweather posts: “The air quality is generally acceptable for most individuals. However, sensitive groups may experience minor to moderate symptoms from long-term exposure.”
The air is bad enough for the King County Regional Homelessness Authority (RHA) to activate a severe weather shelter.
KIRO 7 reports the Compass Housing Alliance, located at 77 South Washington Street in Seattle, will be extending its hours and providing additional overnight beds for people experiencing homelessness on Monday.
The day center will extend its hours to remain open until 7:00 p.m. If needed, the center will remain open overnight through 7:00 a.m., and provide meals and access to its hygiene center.
The RHA is also partnering with Public Health – Seattle & King County to provide additional supplies to outreach workers and service providers during this period of poor air quality.
According to the Puget Sound Clean Air Agency, air quality is currently moderate to unhealthy in many areas in western Washington due to wildfire smoke.
Those in sensitive groups are advised to limit their time outdoors. Healthy people may also develop symptoms over prolonged exposure to poor quality air as well.
