Seattle records world's worst air quality amid wildfire smoke

According to IQAir's air quality and pollution city ranking, Seattle has had the worst air quality in the world for the second day in a row. The air quality in the city has worsened due to heavy smoke from wildfires.

Wildfire Smoke Issues

Wildfires in the region have caused the air quality in Seattle to dip to the worst in the world. The city and Western Washington have been issued an air quality alert for the second day. The air quality is becoming worse due to heavy smoke from wildfires. On Wednesday, Seattle was in the top 5 of the worst air quality rankings, and it then fluctuated within the top 15 and reached number 1 in the afternoon. Thursday morning saw Seattle start in the second spot and reach the first spot again by 8 a.m.

Public Warnings and Alerts

As per the State Health Department recommendations, schools are to keep students indoors with only light activity during physical education classes and recess. Schools will cancel sports practises and events or move them indoors or to a safer air quality area.




Most of Western Washington has been issued an air quality alert from Friday to Monday afternoon. However, this was extended to Thursday evening. The worsening air quality levels caused the extension of the warning to midnight Thursday.

FAQs:

1. Where are the wildfires near Seattle?
   Two of the largest wildfires are the Bolt Creek Fire near Skykomish and the Loch Katrine Fire, around 30 miles from Seattle.
2. Which areas have the most hazardous air quality?
   On Wednesday morning, the most hazardous air quality was in Snoqualmie, Skykomish, and Bellingham.
3. When is the air quality predicted to improve?
   Rain is forecast for Friday and should help improve the air quality.