Wildfire smoke has blanketed large portions of Oregon and Washington for much of the 2026 fire season, and with several fires still active and weather patterns in transition, residents should remain prepared for smoke advisories to continue through the coming weeks.

Current Smoke Situation

Oregon DEQ and Washington Department of Ecology have issued multiple smoke advisories throughout September as regional fires burned. While the Rowe Creek Complex and most major Eastern Oregon fires have reached near-total containment, residual smoke transport from remaining active fires in Idaho and neighboring states continues to affect air quality in parts of the Pacific Northwest.

Central Oregon fire restrictions were lowered to Stage 1 as of September 5, reflecting improved conditions — but smoke from distant fires can still push air quality into unhealthy ranges without warning, particularly during temperature inversions that trap particulates at ground level.

Understanding the Air Quality Index

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is the standard measure used by health agencies to communicate air quality risks. Key thresholds to understand:

  • 0-50 (Good): Air quality poses little or no risk.
  • 51-100 (Moderate): Acceptable for most people; unusually sensitive individuals may experience mild effects.
  • 101-150 (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): People with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should reduce prolonged outdoor exertion.
  • 151-200 (Unhealthy): Everyone should reduce outdoor activity; sensitive groups should avoid it entirely.
  • 201-300 (Very Unhealthy): Everyone should avoid outdoor exertion.
  • 301+ (Hazardous): Remain indoors; use air filtration.

Protecting Yourself During Smoke Events

Oregon DEQ and the Washington Department of Health recommend the following protective actions during active smoke advisories:

  • Remain indoors with windows and doors closed when AQI exceeds 100.
  • Set HVAC systems to recirculate indoor air rather than draw outside air.
  • Use a portable air purifier with a HEPA filter in your main living space.
  • If you must go outdoors, wear a properly fitted N95 or KN95 respirator — cloth masks do not block fine smoke particles.
  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activity even at moderate AQI levels if you have respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
  • Check AirNow.gov or your state DEQ's smoke forecast page for real-time AQI data and hourly forecasts.

Smoke and Tourism

The 2026 fire season has significantly impacted outdoor recreation and tourism in Oregon. Smoke events during peak summer forced short-notice closures at popular destinations including Crater Lake National Park, multiple Cascade wilderness areas, and recreation corridors in Eastern Oregon. Travel Oregon has emphasized that conditions vary dramatically by region and day, encouraging visitors to check fire and air quality maps before departing.

For real-time air quality data across the Pacific Northwest, visit AirNow.gov, the Oregon DEQ Air Quality page at deq.oregon.gov, or AirNow Fire and Smoke Map at fire.airnow.gov.