Weather: Smoke and haze to increase; air quality decreases
Aug 3, 2026, 7:56 AM | Updated: 8:59 am
Wildfire smoke across Seattle in July. (Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)
The next few days won’t just be hotter — they could get smokier, too. Wildfire smoke is forecast to move into Western Washington, raising the possibility of hazy skies and reduced air quality through the middle of the week.
High pressure will keep skies mostly sunny today, with highs climbing into the upper-70s and lower-80s. Some elevated haze from Canadian wildfires will drift overhead, but air quality should remain good for most locations.
By Tuesday, winds will begin moving smoke from Eastern Washington into the region. Skies will likely become noticeably hazier, and there is the potential for air quality to worsen, although exactly how much will depend on how much smoke mixes down to the surface.
The warmest weather arrives Wednesday and Thursday, with highs around 90 degrees. Those hot temperatures will coincide with the greatest chance for smoky skies and periods of reduced air quality.
Relief is expected late Thursday as onshore winds return. That marine push should help flush much of the smoke from the region while bringing cooler temperatures. Friday looks more comfortable, with highs in the mid-80s and improving air quality.
The weekend continues the cooling trend with seasonable temperatures in the mid-70s to low-80s and plenty of sunshine.
One other concern this week will be elevated fire danger as the warm, dry pattern continues, especially in areas experiencing offshore winds.
