Weekend smoke update: yes it will get better, but there's a catch

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Ecology and DNR staff discuss the smoke forecast and health-protection steps you can take:




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Satellite picture from this morning shows a lot of smoke overhead and fires in the Cascades puffing out a lot of smoke.

The clouds offshore are a harbinger of a cold front that will clear things out by tonight into Saturday. Most of western WA should see Good air this weekend, but there might be some lightning on Saturday so the potential exists for new fire starts.

Much of eastern Washington has been choking and frying all week but will see some improvement, both from smoke and heat. Areas further from the fires are likely to enjoy Good air and this is a great time to throw open all the doors and windows to flush out homes.

Unfortunately areas closer to the fires, especially Chelan and Okanogan counties will only enjoy modest improvements.

Catch-22
Them winds dont come with no string attached. They're strong enough to worsen fire growth. Early next week we're likely to see a return to calmer conditions so fresh smoke will not dissipate easily.