Smoke, high temperatures prompt Seattle air quality alert
Aug 3, 2026, 3:48 PM
A man wearing a mask walks up Queen Anne Avenue North as smoke from wildfires fills the air. (Photo: Lindsey Wasson, Getty Images)
(Photo: Lindsey Wasson, Getty Images)
An air quality alert has been issued for the Seattle area as smoke and high temperatures are expected to affect sensitive individuals over the next couple of days.
The City of Seattle recommended several ways to stay safe during days with elevated air pollution, such as avoiding outdoor physical activity, keeping windows and doors closed, and leaving an area if air quality is poor.
On Monday, Seattle recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 112, which is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens.
Sensitive groups are encouraged to reduce exposure by choosing less strenuous activities or shortening the amount of time they are active outdoors. On Tuesday, the AQI in Seattle is forecast to worsen, with a rating of 137, remaining in the 101 to 150 range of being unhealthy for sensitive groups, according to AirNow.
On Wednesday, the AQI is expected to return to a “moderate” level at 90.
A full list of ways to stay safe and additional information is available here.
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Contributing: Luke Duecy, KIRO Newsradio
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