Spokane, Wash. – Smoke from regional wildfires has settled across eastern Washington, pushing Spokane into unhealthy air quality as storms threaten Tuesday travel. Drivers, joggers, and anyone working outdoors face both breathing risks and wet road conditions, especially along I-90 during the evening commute.
According to the Washington Department of Ecology and the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency, an Air Quality Alert remains in effect for Spokane, Stevens, Lincoln, Grant, Okanogan, Whitman, and neighboring counties until further notice. The agencies advise limiting outdoor activity, closing windows, and running air purifiers to avoid exposure.
The National Weather Service reports widespread haze will persist through Monday night. By Tuesday, storm chances rise with showers likely after 2 p.m. Thunderstorms may bring heavy rainfall, gusty winds, and slick roads. Afternoon highs will reach the upper 70s, but cooler air slides in midweek.
Residents in Spokane Valley, Cheney, and Airway Heights should prepare for rapid changes. Commuters may encounter reduced visibility along U.S. 195 and Highway 2. Light rainfall may not be enough to clear smoke, so sensitive groups should stay indoors.
Conditions improve late week as scattered showers taper off by Friday. Still, haze may linger until winds shift more strongly out of the west.
Authorities stress avoiding strenuous outdoor work, keeping inhalers handy for asthma sufferers, and checking on vulnerable neighbors. Further advisories may be issued if wildfire smoke increases.
Five Day Forecast for Spokane, WA
- Tuesday: High 77, chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m., low 56.
- Wednesday: High 80, slight chance of storms before 8 p.m., low 56.
- Thursday: High 75, 30% chance of showers mainly after 11 p.m., low 57.
- Friday: High 76, partly sunny, low 54.
- Saturday: High 74, 20% chance of showers, low 55.
