The National Weather Service has issued an air quality warning for six states as rapant wildfires continue to spread across the region. Oregon, Colorado, Washington, Idaho, Wyoming and Montana are among the states to receive the warning, which the organization believes can save lives.
The air quality is especially harmful to children, as they haven’t completely developed their lungs and are therefore more susceptible to smoke inhalation. Most of the advisories focus on the risks posed to children, advising parents and caretakers to exercise caution and possibly even avoid outdoor activities.
The CDC notes that children who inhale smoke related to wildfires are at risk for chest pain, coughing and inflammation of the eyes, nose and throat.
Alerts Warn of Specific Air-Related Issues
The alerts vary in scope from state to state. For example, Washington’s alert encompasses nearly half of the entire state.
“If smoke is thick or becomes thick in your neighborhood you may want to remain indoors,” said one of the warnings. “This is especially true for those with heart disease, respiratory illnesses, the very young, and older adults.”
Another warning explained that air quality levels could change and fluctuate over the next few days, largely due to both wildfires and the projected forecast.
“Pollutants in smoke can cause burning eyes, runny nose, aggravate heart and lung diseases, and aggravate other serious health problems,” the survey warned.
Carbon monoxide, lead and other harmful air issues can arise from rampant wildfires, and it seems that the northwest and central part of the country is not exempt from their effects.
What’s Coming Next to the Region?
Meteorologist Carl Erickson told Newsweek that more weather could be on the way, which could only intensify the effects of the fires and their impact on communities in the region.
“A slow moving storm will move into the western U.S. this week. As this storm exits the region later in the week, a shift in the air flow may clear the smoke out of the northwestern U.S. heading into Friday and Saturday,” Erickson said.
“However, if the fires continue to burn, the areas of smoke may return to those areas later in the weekend and into the following week.”
Many of the most recent warnings went into effect on Sunday afternoon and night, beginning the week at a heightened level of awareness in the Pacific and general Northwestern United States.
Heat and the concern around its effects on health are well documented in summer months, but a rough transition into fall and colder weather could present unforeseen problems if parents aren’t prepared.
