Spokane, Wash. – A smoky haze is hanging over parts of eastern Washington, softening the morning sunshine while another round of summer heat begins to build. Air quality remains the biggest concern today, but hotter afternoons are just around the corner as temperatures surge toward the upper 90s early next week.
According to the National Weather Service and the Washington Department of Ecology, an Air Quality Alert remains in effect through 9 a.m. Monday for Spokane and surrounding counties because of wildfire smoke drifting into the region. Fine particulate pollution (PM2.5) is expected to range from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Hazardous at times, depending on smoke concentrations and shifting winds.
Today’s weather remains dry with sunshine returning after areas of patchy smoke. Spokane is expected to reach 91 degrees, with southwest winds increasing to 6 to 11 mph and gusts as high as 23 mph during the afternoon. Those breezy conditions may continue to move smoke in and out of the metro area.
The warming trend strengthens over the next several days. Highs climb to 92 degrees Sunday, 95 degrees Monday, and 99 degrees Tuesday, bringing the hottest weather of the period. Dry conditions continue, increasing the need to stay hydrated and limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak afternoon heat.
Travel along Interstate 90, U.S. Highway 2, U.S. Highway 395, and State Route 290 should remain generally smooth, but visibility could change quickly if thicker smoke drifts into the Spokane Valley or surrounding communities. Allow extra distance while driving if visibility decreases.
Residents with asthma, heart disease, young children, older adults, and pregnant individuals should limit prolonged outdoor activity while smoke lingers. Running a HEPA air purifier or keeping windows closed during periods of heavier smoke can help reduce exposure.
Long-range outlooks continue to favor warmer-than-average temperatures into late next week, with no widespread rainfall expected to clear the smoke. Continue monitoring local air quality reports and weather updates as conditions evolve.
Five-Day Forecast for Spokane, Washington
- Today: Sunny after patchy smoke. High 91°F | Low 58°F
- Sunday: Sunny. High 92°F | Low 58°F
- Monday: Partly sunny. High 95°F | Low 64°F
- Tuesday: Mostly sunny and hot. High 99°F | Low 66°F
- Wednesday: Mostly sunny and hot. High 99°F | Low 65°F
