On Oct. 20 Seattle, WA had the worst air quality in the world with an Air Quality Index measurement of 245, from King 5 news.
Normal air quality is anywhere from 0-50, according to AirNow.
Having bad air quality affects everyone. Itchy eyes, sore throat, and headaches are common symptoms from poor air.
More sensitive groups of people are likely to have more serious symptoms. King 5 News gave a list of those who are at a higher risk when the air quality is bad:
- Infants, children, and over 65 year olds
- Pregnant people
- People who have heart or lung diseases
- People who have a respiratory infection
- People with diabetes
- Stroke survivors
- People dealing with COVID-19
When the air is not normal, many sources say that people should limit time outside, stock up on necessities, create an at home air filter or buy one, and wear a tight fitting mask if available.
King 5 stated, the air quality is mainly being affected by wildfires burning in the Cascades. The Chilliwack Area, Bolt Creek, and Nakia Creek in Clark County, are some of the fires that are majorly contributing.
Bolt Creek is one of the biggest contributors. Firefighters aren’t able to put out the fire quickly because of how dangerous the terrain is, according to Axios Seattle.
However, The Weather Channel shows that the Seattle area is expecting several days of rain. The rain will help with all the wildfires and smoke in the air. With the air clearing up, normal outdoor activities can start to resume.
You can check the Air Quality Index in your area by visiting AirNow.gov and typing in your city.