While the Tunnel Five Fire continues to burn in the Columbia River Gorge, it’s wildfire smoke drifting into Clark County from Canada that is making for some unhealthy air conditions on the day after Fourth of July.
According to airnow.gov, the Air Quality Index in Clark County on Wednesday morning ranges from moderate — an AQI of 66 — in Salmon Creek, Felida, West Vancouver and most of North County to unhealthy for sensitive groups in parts of central Vancouver and the Orchards area, with an AQI as high as 131. Levels had been unhealthy in that area earlier this morning.
According to the government website, a moderate reading is fine for most people but sensitive groups should avoid strenuous activity and go inside if feeling effects from the air. Sensitive groups include people with heart and lung conditions, older adults, children, pregnant people and those who spend a lot of time outdoors. In areas with an AQI in the unhealthy range, sensitive groups should move activities indoor; everyone else should keep outdoor activity light.
The good news is that the air quality is trending in the right direction with readings dropping since sunrise.
