Wildfire Season Air Quality Guide
Wildfire smoke has become the dominant air quality issue in the Western US, affecting millions and creating hazardous conditions that can last for weeks. Understanding fire season patterns is essential for health and safety.
Critical Information
Regional Fire Season Timeline
California
Extended dry season, Santa Ana winds spread fires in fall. Statewide impacts common.
Pacific Northwest
Late summer dry period creates fire risk. Smoke valleys trap pollution for days.
Mountain West
Lightning-sparked fires in forests. Smoke settles in valleys at night, clears by afternoon.
Southwest
Early fire season before monsoons. Usually shorter duration than Pacific fires.
Health Impacts of Wildfire Smoke
PM2.5 Particulates
Wildfire smoke contains extremely fine particles (PM2.5) that penetrate deep into lungs and bloodstream. Much more dangerous than typical air pollution.
- • 10x more harmful than urban PM2.5
- • Contains toxic chemicals from burning materials
- • Can travel hundreds of miles from fire
- • Accumulates indoors without filtration
Immediate Health Effects
- • Eye irritation, burning sensation
- • Coughing, throat irritation, runny nose
- • Shortness of breath, chest tightness
- • Headaches, fatigue, dizziness
- • Asthma attacks, COPD exacerbations
- • Increased heart attack/stroke risk (elderly)
Protection Strategies by AQI Level
AQI 51-100 (Moderate)
- • Sensitive groups limit prolonged outdoor exertion
- • General public can maintain normal activities
- • Close windows if smoke smell is strong
AQI 101-150 (Unhealthy for Sensitive)
- • Children, elderly, asthmatics stay indoors
- • Reduce outdoor exercise for everyone
- • Use air purifiers indoors
- • Wear N95 masks if outside
AQI 151-200 (Unhealthy)
- • Everyone limit outdoor activities
- • Cancel outdoor events and sports
- • Keep windows closed, use AC on recirculate
- • N95 masks essential for any outdoor time
AQI 201-300 (Very Unhealthy)
- • Avoid all outdoor activity
- • Stay indoors with air purifiers running
- • Create clean air room with HEPA filter
- • Consider temporary relocation if possible
AQI 301+ (Hazardous)
- • Emergency conditions - evacuate if possible
- • Indoor air likely also hazardous
- • Emergency room visits spike
- • Schools and businesses should close
Essential Wildfire Season Supplies
Air Quality Equipment
- • HEPA air purifiers (one per bedroom + living room)
- • N95/KN95 masks (multiple per person)
- • AQI monitor for indoor tracking
- • HVAC filters upgraded to MERV-13
Health Supplies
- • Extra inhalers/respiratory medications
- • Eye drops for irritation
- • Nasal saline spray
- • First aid supplies
Emergency Prep
- • Evacuation route planned
- • Go-bag packed and ready
- • Important documents secured
- • Pet carriers and supplies ready
Monitoring Resources
Key Websites & Tools
Real-Time Monitoring
- • AirNow.gov - Official EPA AQI data
- • PurpleAir.com - Crowdsourced sensors
- • IQAir.com - Global monitoring
Fire Tracking
- • InciWeb - Incident information
- • Fire.airnow.gov - Smoke forecasts
- • NOAA smoke prediction maps
Long-Term Considerations
Wildfire seasons are lengthening and intensifying due to climate change. If you live in high-risk areas:
- • Consider year-round air purification systems
- • Budget for potential temporary relocation during severe fire seasons
- • Evaluate long-term relocation to lower-risk areas if health is severely impacted
- • Invest in home hardening and defensible space if in wildfire-prone zones
- • Stay informed about changing fire patterns in your region