Smoke Advisory: Hurricane Hilary Brings Canadian Wildfire Smoke To The Columbia River Gorge
by Cole Goodwin
Lyle, WA, August 19, 2023 – As Hurricane Hilary alters atmospheric conditions, residents of various Gorge regions are urged to remain cautious and vigilant due to the impending influx of smoke from Canadian wildfires. The National Weather Service has forecasted "areas of smoke" across the Gorge until Sunday night, with relief expected as winds change direction on Monday.
The Southwest Clean Air Agency has issued an Air Quality Advisory in the Central and Western Columbia River Gorge areas, effective from 9 a.m. Saturday, August 19th to noon PDT Monday, August 21st. During this time, particulate matter (PM2.5) levels may intermittently fluctuate between Moderate and Unhealthy For Sensitive Groups. Sensitive groups are advised to reduce outdoor exposure, limit strenuous activities, and follow indoor air quality guidelines. General residents are urged to watch for symptoms and respond accordingly.
Affected areas include:
Ariel
Battle Ground
Cape Disappointment
Cathlamet
Castle Rock
Cathlamet
Central Columbia River Gorge
Coldwater Ridge Visitors Center
Cougar
Elk Mountain
Frances
Greater Vancouver Area
I-5 Corridor in Cowlitz County
Kelso
Lake Merwin
Long Beach
Longview
Mount St. Helens
Naselle
North Bonneville
Ocean Park
Ridgefield
Ryderwood
South Washington Cascade Foothills
South Washington Cascades
South Washington Coast
Stevenson
Underwood
Vancouver
Western Columbia River Gorge
Willapa
Wind River Valley
Yale Lake
Yacolt
Burning restrictions are in place to prevent further deterioration of air quality. For real-time updates on air quality, visit www.swcleanair.gov.
Hurricane Hilary's unexpected role in transporting smoke from wildfires emphasizes the need for continued preparedness. Residents are advised to stay informed and safeguard thier health amid changing weather conditions.
