Why Is the Tri-Cities So Smoky Today? Here’s Where the Wildfire Smoke Is Coming From

If you step outside today in the Tri-Cities, you might want to wear a mask to protect yourself from the poor air quality.

Tri-Cities Air Quality Takes a Hit as Wildfire Smoke Moves In

Smoke is in the air in the Columbia Basin, and it's making for a week of poor air quality.

As we get ready for the Art in the Park and Boat Races this weekend, best to be ready for the smoky skies and poor air quality caused by nearby wildfires.

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Wildfire Smoke Impacts Air Quality Across the Tri-Cities

There's a round of new wildfires in Oregon and Eastern Washington that's contributing to the unsafe air in the skies above us.

Events like the Clover Island concert and Live @ 5 concert series on Wednesday and Thursday are being monitored because if the air quality is poor, it might mean cancellation for this week. At this time, both events are still scheduled to proceed.

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Sadly, hot stagnant weather is trapping smoke close to the ground instead of allowing it to disperse.

Over the next few days, it's going to get even hotter with temperatures reaching 104.

Hopefully, the smoke disperses over the next few days, but if you have to go outside, limit strenuous outdoor activity if the air looks especially hazy.

Also, keep windows closed if the smoke is noticeable indoors. If you have asthma, COPD, heart disease, or are otherwise sensitive to smoke, consider using an N95 mask if you need to be outside, according to the Washington State Department of Ecology.

Please stay safe out there, and hopefully these smoky skies will subside soon.