The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issued an Air Quality Advisory on Monday for parts of Eastern, Central and Southern Oregon including Jackson, Josephine, eastern Douglas and Klamath counties.
DEQ officials said the advisories are in effect until further notice. Smoke experts will revisit forecasts on Wednesday and possibly update the advisories.
DEQ also expected intermittent smoke in eastern Lane and northern Lake counties through Wednesday due to smoke from the Diamond Complex Fire burning near Diamond and Lemolo lakes.
Smoke levels can change rapidly depending on weather. Smoke can irritate eyes and lungs and worsen some medical conditions. People most at risk include infants and young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with heart or lung disease.
Protect yourself and your family when smoke levels are high by staying inside if possible, and keeping doors and windows closed. If it's too hot, run air conditioning on recirculate or consider moving to a cooler location. Avoid strenuous outdoor activity.
Be aware of smoke in your area and avoid places with the highest levels. If you have a breathing plan for a medical condition, be sure to follow it and keep any needed medications refilled.
Cloth, dust and surgical masks don't protect from the harmful particles in smoke. N95 or P100 respirators may offer protection, but they must be properly selected and worn.
