Wildfire smoke is currently impacting the Bellevue Area and is a mixture of small particles, gases and water vapor. The primary health concern is the small particles. These small particles can cause burning eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, headaches and illness (i.e., bronchitis). They can also worsen chronic heart and lung disease (i.e., asthma, emphysema and COPD).
Avoid breathing smoke if you can help it. If you are healthy, you usually are not at a major risk from smoke. People at risk include those with heart or lung diseases, children and older adults.
Get Current Updates:
- Washington State Department of Natural Resources
Washing DNR and Washington wildfire response partners work to ensure you receive accurate information as quickly as possible.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Wildfire Smoke
Wildfire smoke can harm you in multiple ways. Smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung diseases. This fact sheet tells you how you can protect your health and be safe if you are exposed to wildfire smoke. - AirNow – Quality check based on zip code
Air quality has an impact on health, review the index using your zip code to determine the level of safety in your area. - Inciweb website
Provides information on large wildfires burning throughout the nation, including Washington. - Northwest Interagency Coordination Center
A blog with official fire information. You can also follow them in Twitter at @nwccinfo. - National Wildfire Coordinating Group
Provides a map of basic information, such as jurisdiction, on medium and large active fires. Note: the map is based on the best available data, which can change quickly as wildfires unfold. For the most accurate and/or current perimeter data, contact the agency with jurisdiction.
Prepare
- COVID-19 and Wildfires Frequently Asked Questions from the CDC
- Wildfires: Protect Yourself and Your Community
- Wildfires: Before, During, and After
- Use Respirators to Protect Your Lungs
Recover
- Helping Families Deal with the Stress of Relocation after a Disaster
- Coping with a Disaster or Traumatic Event from the CDC
- Hazards During Cleanup Work Following Wildfires (Part 1)
- Hazards During Cleanup Work Following Wildfires (Part 2)
Disclaimer: This website is intended for general information. It does not provide with specific direction, advice, or recommendations. Please contact an appropriate professional for questions concerning your particular situation.
Last Updated September 14, 2020
