WENATCHEE, Wash. – Residents across Chelan and Douglas counties are facing smoky skies this week as the Washington Department of Ecology issued an Air Quality Alert Monday morning, warning of reduced visibility and moderate to unhealthy air conditions from ongoing regional wildfires.
According to the National Weather Service, smoke will be heaviest in the Wenatchee River Corridor, including Cashmere, Leavenworth, East Wenatchee, and Rock Island, where fine particle levels are expected to rise. Air quality elsewhere in Chelan and Douglas counties should remain in the good to moderate range, but conditions may fluctuate with changing wind patterns.
Officials urge residents to limit outdoor activity, especially children, seniors, and those with respiratory issues. When air quality turns unhealthy, the Department of Ecology recommends staying indoors with windows closed and using filtered air when possible.
Smoke impacts are expected to linger through midweek as regional fires continue to burn, and the alert will remain in effect until further notice. Residents should monitor air quality updates and follow guidance from local health and emergency management agencies.
