Eureka, CA – Smoke from the Dillon Fire in Siskiyou County is pushing south, prompting officials to issue an air quality smoke advisory for several Northern California counties.
According to the North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District (NCUAQMD), the Dillon Fire, located west of Highway 96 near Somes Bar, is the largest fire producing smoke in the region. Additional fires, including the Blue Fire and Log Fire, are also contributing to poor air quality. Air quality models show smoke pooling in valleys and river drainages in the mornings before shifting north and east after midday.
The agency reported that air quality in areas immediately north of Somes Bar and surrounding Siskiyou County is being impacted, with smoke spreading south toward the Klamath River and Highway 96 corridor. Periodic smoke impacts are expected as far south as Orleans and Weitchpec.
Regional outlooks vary. Air quality was listed as Good in Eureka, Crescent City, Garberville, and Trinity Center, while Orleans and Hoopa may see levels ranging from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Unhealthy during late mornings and early afternoons. Willow Creek and Klamath are expected to fluctuate between Good and Moderate conditions.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Quality Index (AQI) currently categorizes levels between Unhealthy (AQI 151-200) and Very Unhealthy (AQI 201-300) in certain locations. Health officials urge residents, particularly children, older adults, and people with heart or lung disease, to limit outdoor activity and avoid prolonged exertion.
Residents are advised to keep windows closed, avoid using outdoor air ventilation systems, and use high-efficiency filters on air conditioning units. Clean Air Centers are available for those needing shelter during periods of heavy smoke.
For updated forecasts, residents can check the EPA’s AirNow Fire & Smoke Map at fire.airnow.gov or visit www.ncuaqmd.org.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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