Oregon DEQ Issues Smog Advisory for Salem And Portland

You can help prevent smog by reducing pollution from cars, mowers, paint and aerosol sprays.

Salem skies have indeed looked brighter Photo by: Kevin Hays

(SALEM) - The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and the Southwest Clean Air Agency have issued an air pollution advisory for smog for Friday, July 21st through Sunday, July 23rd in the Portland-Vancouver and Salem area.

Air pollution levels were already in the moderate range on Thursday and expected to increase over the weekend. State meteorologists predict that low winds and high temperatures will persist through the weekend.

Because smog levels are expected to increase and the region may exceed the federal health standard for smog on Saturday and Sunday, the DEQ is asking local residents to take action.

Smog levels are expected to reach the “moderate” to “unhealthy for sensitive groups” range and that may cause smog-sensitive individuals to experience health problems. Smog can trigger asthma attacks, cause difficulty breathing and aggravate lung and heart problems. Smog is especially harmful to children, people with asthma and other lung problems, and older adults.

If you have heart or lung disease, follow your health care provider’s advice on how to care for your condition on days when smog is increasing.

You can reduce your risk by avoiding strenuous outdoor activity during the time of day when smog is worst, usually between 3:00 PM and 7:00 PM.

To receive e-mail smog advisories, log on to: www.deq.state.or.us/aq and click on Air Pollution Advisories in the left-hand column. Follow the link that says “Sign up to get air pollution advisories by e-mail.”