Thursday, October 3, 2019

Information: See you in Summer 2020

Just when it was looking like our smoke season was starting early, Mother Nature nipped it in the bud and we had a fairly mild 2019 for wildfire smoke, especially compared to the last few years. Shew! It was nice to get a breather - literally!

In his last post, Ranil explains the data and science-y stuff around our low-smoke year.

As much as we wish to never have another wildfire season, we’re prepared to return to this blog around July 2020 with smoke information, current conditions, forecasts, health tips, and more. 

In the meantime, here’s information and contacts for your off-season inquiries.

Current air quality conditions

The air monitoring map on this blog displays current data and is active all year long. Mobile users can find it here. For additional monitors, view the Monitoring & Forecasting tab.

Local air quality contacts

Have questions about smoke or air quality issues today? Contact your local clean air agency. Phone numbers, websites, and a printable map are available here. Also view the Local Information tab for additional county contacts including local health, emergency management, and sheriff’s offices. For emergencies, please call 911.


Current fires on the map

If you see fires on the monitoring map during the off-season, those are likely silvicultural prescribed fires. View a daily list of prescribed burn details from the Washington Department of Natural Resources.

Be prepared for next wildfire season 

Get a jump on next wildfire season by being #SmokeReady. Here's 10 Tips for planning ahead to protect you and your family from smoke. Also view EPA's fact sheet "Prepare for Fire Season" for a checklist of steps to do now.

Many thanks

This blog is due to great partnerships between several Washington agencies and federal teams. We are grateful for their commitment and dedication to our Washington communities. We also thank you for your questions and comments, and for sharing this information with your neighbors. 

Have a wonderful winter and spring in our beautiful state of Washington. Breathe well.