Air quality alert issued for Chelan and Douglas counties due to wildfire smoke

EAST WENATCHEE — The Washington State Department of Ecology has issued an air quality alert for Chelan and Douglas counties as smoke from wildfires continues to drift across the region.

Public health officials are advising residents to remain indoors during periods of unhealthy air quality. The Chelan-Douglas Health District (CDHD) urged people to monitor conditions closely to avoid negative health impacts.

“The smoke from wildfires can cause health problems, even if you are healthy,” CDHD said in the alert.

Possible symptoms linked to poor air quality include watery or dry eyes, coughing or wheezing, throat or sinus irritation, shortness of breath, headaches, irregular heartbeat and chest pain. Officials said those experiencing serious symptoms should seek medical attention immediately.

The best protection against wildfire smoke is staying indoors and maintaining clean indoor air by improving ventilation and filtration. For those who must go outdoors, respirator masks labeled N-95 or N-100 can provide some protection.

CDHD noted that residents can find N95 mask distribution sites through the Washington State Department of Health, and local libraries are available as cleaner air shelters. A full list of library locations and hours can be found at www.ncwlibraries.org.

For updated information on wildfires and local air quality, residents are encouraged to visit the Washington Smoke Blog and follow Chelan County Emergency Management on Facebook for evacuation updates.

Additional public health guidance is available at www.cdhd.wa.gov and on CDHD’s Facebook, X and Instagram pages.