WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Wildfire smoke is spreading across more of Whatcom County as air quality continues to worsen.
An air quality alert remains in effect for Whatcom County from Deming eastward and Skagit County from Hamilton eastward through 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 6.
Northerly winds are continuing to carry wildfire smoke from B.C. and eastern Washington into the region.
The smoke spread farther west on Wednesday, prompting the Northwest Clean Air Agency to classify the air quality in Everson, Kendall and Maple Falls as “hazardous” in the afternoon.
Levels were observed as “unhealthy” in Lynden and Laurel, while they remained in the “moderate” range across Bellingham, Ferndale and Blaine.
Forecasters say the smoke isn’t expected to clear until stronger west winds develop later in the week.
Wildfire danger remains “high” amid hot and dry conditions that triggered a heat advisory in the region through 10 p.m. Thursday.
Whatcom County Health and Community Services is advising residents to stay up to date on local air quality conditions, keep doors and windows closed and wear a well-fitting N95 mask outdoors if you have to be in smoky air. The county is offering free masks in the main lobby of the WCHCS building at 509 Girard Street in Bellingham.
You can find more information on how to stay prepared and protect your health from wildfire smoke on the county’s website.
