Wildfire smoke information

Wildfire smoke is a major threat to human health. Smoke from wildfires is the largest source of particle pollution in Washington. Breathing in smoke causes wheezing and coughing, heart and lung disease, and death. The number of acres burned by wildfires is increasing as climate change reduces winter snowpack, and produces hotter and drier summers.

We monitor air quality conditions and forecast smoke levels. We also work with the Washington Departments of Natural Resources and Health, the U.S. Forest Service, and the National Weather Service to track wildfire smoke and protect people who live in Washington.

Learn more about how smoke affects your health.

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Current air quality conditions

We track air quality using air monitors around the state. Our network of monitors continuously measures air pollution year-round. During wildfires, we may also add temporary monitors.

For more information about wildfire smoke conditions and smoke forecasts, go to the Washington Smoke Information Blog.

The colored dots on the map below refer to EPA's Air Quality Index (AQI) levels of air pollution and related health warnings. Click on a dot to get detailed monitoring station information and air pollution data.

Color (Values)	Meaning – What You Can Do
Green (0-50)	Good – It’s a great day to be active outside and a good time to make a plan if worse air quality is in the forecast.
Yellow (51-100)	Moderate – Some people are especially sensitive to lower levels of particle pollution and should reduce exposure. For example, limit time outside and avoid strenuous outdoor activity. All sensitive groups should watch for symptoms.
Orange (101-150)	Unhealthy for sensitive groups (USG) – Sensitive groups should take steps to reduce exposure. Limit time outside, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air. Everyone should watch for symptoms as a sign to reduce exposure.
Red (151-200)	Unhealthy – Everyone should reduce exposure. Limit time outside, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air.
Purple (201-300)	Very unhealthy – Everyone should reduce exposure. Stay inside and filter indoor air to keep it cleaner. Go elsewhere for cleaner air, if needed.
Dark red (301+)	Hazardous – Everyone should reduce exposure. Stay inside and filter indoor air to keep it cleaner. Go elsewhere for cleaner air, if needed.

You can make a low-cost, yet effective, air cleaner.
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Got smoke?

Learn how to make a low-cost clean air fan. This simple fan-filter combination can reduce tiny, harmful particles in bad air — like wildfire smoke, wood smoke, dust, vehicle exhaust, and pesticide spray. Use it in a small room, with the windows and doors closed.

Smoke forecast

This map shows a forecast of smoke levels across Washington. In the summer, the map shows a 5‑day forecast. In the winter, the map shows a 2‑day forecast. The smoke forecast can help you plan outdoor activities and reduce your exposure to air pollution. Colors on the map refer to levels of air pollution and related health warnings.

Smoke forecasts are based on information from:

Ecology and local clean air agencies.
A smoke forecast model run by Washington State University.

Contact information

Andrew Wineke
Communications Manager, acting
andrew.wineke@ecy.wa.gov
360-791-1939