Air quality update

Air conditions remain VERY UNHEALTHY this morning in the region. The Air Quality Index was at 242 at 7 a.m., according to the Department of Environmental Equality’s air monitoring station on Lancaster Road in Hayden. It’s slightly better than Monday evening’s conditions, when the air quality dipped into the HAZARDOUS range beginning at 300.

An Air Quality Alert - issued by several agencies, including the DEQ in Coeur d’Alene - remains in effect until noon Friday for the region.

“Air quality degraded across North Idaho with most sensors currently reading very unhealthy to hazardous conditions. Northeast to east winds brought thick smoke in from Montana and BC wildfires. The

easterly flow pattern will remain in place through Thursday night then a switch back to westerly winds is expected Friday,” states the national weather service.

“Children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory illnesses are most at risk of serious health effects. If you experience respiratory distress, you should speak with your physician.”

For current air quality levels in Idaho visit airquality.deq.idaho.gov or airnow.gov.