Klamath Falls, Ore. – Residents across Klamath and Lake counties are facing unhealthy air quality through 10 a.m. Thursday as wildfire smoke continues to blanket southern Oregon.
According to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, an air quality advisory remains in effect due to elevated smoke levels impacting areas including Klamath Falls, Lakeview, Olene, and Fort Rock. The advisory urges residents—especially children, seniors, and those with heart or lung issues—to avoid strenuous outdoor activities and remain indoors if possible.
Local agencies have implemented restrictions on wood burning, including fireplaces and outdoor burning. Some exemptions apply for households relying solely on wood heat or with limited income—residents are advised to check with their county health departments for specifics.
Smoke-sensitive individuals should use certified HEPA filters indoors and keep windows closed during high-smoke periods. The DEQ’s Air Quality Index currently lists several areas in the “orange” and “red” zones—unhealthy for sensitive groups and the general public.
Residents can monitor real-time conditions via the OregonAir app and should be prepared for potential health effects including irritated eyes, coughing, and worsening of chronic conditions.
More updates may follow if smoke concentrations worsen or extend past Thursday.
