Portland, Ore. – Residents across the Portland metro and Willamette Valley are under an air quality advisory until 8 p.m. Monday, with unhealthy ozone levels expected to persist through the evening.
According to the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Lane Regional Air Protection Agency, stagnant weather conditions are allowing ozone to build near the surface, creating unsafe air for sensitive groups. Officials say those with asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions should avoid outdoor exertion until the advisory is lifted.
Communities from Hillsboro and Tigard south through Salem, Albany, and Eugene could see the worst impacts during the afternoon and early evening hours, when ozone levels typically peak. Health experts recommend limiting outdoor activities, especially for children and older adults, and keeping windows closed to reduce exposure indoors.
Drivers are encouraged to cut back on vehicle use, refuel after dark, and avoid idling to help reduce emissions that contribute to ozone formation.
The advisory remains in effect through Monday evening, and further extensions are possible if stagnant air continues into midweek.
