Helena Joyce
Wildfires in Canada have been causing air quality issues in Washington and other parts of the US Midwest and Northeast. Smoke from Canadian wildfires has been known to reach Washington, with fires in British Columbia being the usual culprits. In June 2025, Canadian wildfire smoke triggered air quality alerts in Washington, with monitors in the state reading moderate air quality, and some sensors suggesting unhealthy conditions for sensitive groups. Wildfire smoke is a major threat to human health, causing wheezing and coughing, heart and lung disease, and even death. Washington tracks air quality using air monitors around the state, with the data being used to create a map that shows a forecast of smoke levels.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Frequency of fire pollution in Washington | Occasional fire pollution from Canadian wildfires, typically during the peak of fire season (July to September). |
| Source of fire pollution | Wildfires in Canada, particularly in British Columbia, and the Northern U.S. |
| Impact on Washington | Reduced air quality, hazy skies, potential health risks, and activation of air quality alerts. |
| Monitoring and mitigation in Washington | The Washington State Department of Ecology tracks air quality using air monitors and provides smoke forecasts. Temporary monitors may be added during wildfires. |
| Smoke-ready initiatives | Smoke Ready Week in mid-June to raise awareness and provide preparedness tips. |
| Health impacts of wildfire smoke | Wheezing, coughing, heart and lung disease, and potential long-term health effects on the immune system. |
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What You'll Learn
Wildfires in Canada and the US
Wildfires are a common occurrence in Canada and the US, with the former experiencing wildfires across its provinces every year from March to October. In 2025, Canada experienced a particularly severe wildfire season, with 225 fires burning across the country, causing the evacuation of over 30,000 people. The smoke from these fires spread across the US Midwest and eastern states, affecting air quality and causing hazy skies.
Canada's wildfires are often caused by lightning, which is more common in hotter temperatures. In 2023, lightning sparked fires that affected 93% of the country's total wildfire area. The remaining 7% were caused by humans. These wildfires not only pose a direct threat to those living in the affected areas but also contribute to air pollution, as the smoke from the fires can travel long distances.
In the US, states like California have also experienced destructive wildfires, with fires destroying homes and forcing thousands to evacuate. The western US is particularly prone to wildfires due to its large areas of forest, and states like California often experience dry conditions that fuel the fires.
Washington, a state in the western US, is also vulnerable to wildfire smoke. While the state may not always experience ground-level smoke impacts from fires that occur east of the Rocky Mountains, it can be affected when fires burn in the mountains across southern British Columbia. Washington monitors air quality and forecasts smoke levels to protect its residents from the harmful effects of wildfire smoke, which is the largest source of particle pollution in the state.
The impact of wildfires in Canada and the US extends beyond the immediate destruction they cause. The smoke produced by these fires can travel great distances, affecting air quality and posing health risks to residents in both countries. As climate change contributes to hotter and drier summers, the number of acres burned by wildfires is likely to increase, exacerbating the problem.
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Impact on air quality in Washington
Washington generally does not experience ground-level smoke impacts from fires that occur east of the Rocky Mountains. However, smoke from Canadian fires can reach Washington when the fires are closer to home in the mountains across southern British Columbia. This typically happens during Washington's peak fire season, which runs from July to September.
During the winter months, it is not uncommon to see moderate air quality in Washington due to residential, industrial, and transportation pollution. There may also be a spike in air pollution around Independence Day due to fireworks. However, from April through June, air quality typically ranges from good to moderate.
In June 2025, smoke from Canadian wildfires triggered air quality alerts across the US Midwest and Northeast. About 8.6 million acres were burned in Canada during this time, which is well above the country's seasonal average of 6.5 million acres. The smoke from these fires, along with ozone from heat, raised air pollution levels in several cities, including Washington.
The Washington State Department of Ecology tracks air quality using air monitors located around the state. These monitors continuously measure air pollution year-round, and temporary monitors may be added during wildfires. The department also provides a map that shows a forecast of smoke levels across Washington, which can help residents plan outdoor activities and reduce their exposure to air pollution.
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Health risks of smoke inhalation
Smoke from wildfires is the largest source of particle pollution in Washington. While smoke from Canadian fires usually remains east of Washington state, smoke from fires in southern British Columbia can drift into Washington, particularly during the peak of fire season (July to September).
Smoke inhalation can have serious health risks. When you inhale smoke, you breathe in harmful particles and gases produced by the fire. This can irritate your eyes, nose, throat, and skin, causing a cough and soot on the face. It can also cause nausea due to the odour.
Smoke inhalation can also lead to more severe health issues, such as:
- Acute respiratory distress syndrome and respiratory failure: Smoke can irritate and inflame your lungs and airways, causing them to swell and block oxygen, leading to respiratory distress and failure.
- Cardiovascular issues: Smoke contains carbon monoxide, which can decrease the body's oxygen supply, leading to headaches, reduced alertness, and aggravation of heart conditions. Fine particles in smoke can also travel deeply into the respiratory tract, reaching the lungs, affecting the lungs and potentially causing cardiovascular issues, especially during physical exertion.
- Permanent damage: Smoke inhalation can cause cell damage by interfering with oxygen delivery or use. This can lead to long-term health effects, including an increased risk of cancer, lung disease, and cardiovascular disease.
- Death: Smoke inhalation is the number one cause of death related to fires. It can lead to asphyxiation or chemical irritation, resulting in serious injury or death.
It is important to avoid smoky areas and limit physical exertion when exposed to smoke. Sensitive groups, such as children, older adults, and people with heart or respiratory problems, are particularly at risk and should take extra precautions, such as wearing masks and limiting time outdoors. If you experience any symptoms like shortness of breath, heart palpitations, or unusual fatigue, it is important to contact a healthcare provider.
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Tracking and monitoring fire pollution
Satellite Technology
Satellites play a crucial role in detecting and monitoring fires, providing valuable information that would be challenging to obtain through ground-based observations alone. Organizations like NOAA (National Environmental Satellite, Data, and Information Service) employ geostationary and polar-orbiting satellites to track fires. Geostationary satellites, such as NOAA's GOES-R series, constantly monitor specific areas as the Earth rotates, while polar-orbiting satellites like NOAA-20 and Suomi NPP orbit closer to the Earth, providing higher-resolution images twice a day. These satellites offer insights into the location, duration, size, temperature, and power output of fires, aiding in the spread tracking and air quality modelling.
Air Quality Index (AQI)
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is a tool used by the EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) to communicate outdoor air quality and associated health risks. It provides a colour-coded system for five pollutants: particle pollution, ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide. During wildfire events, the AQI helps individuals understand the air quality in their area and take necessary precautions to protect their health. The AQI can be accessed through the AirNow.gov website or the AirNow smartphone app, which also provides interactive maps and smoke advisories.
Fire and Smoke Maps
The EPA and the U.S. Forest Service have developed the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map to provide comprehensive information on fire locations, smoke plumes, near real-time air quality, and recommended actions for the public. This map is continuously improved to ensure that individuals can make informed decisions about their health and safety during wildfire events. The Fire and Smoke Map can be accessed online or through the AirNow mobile app.
Hazard Mapping System (HMS)
The NOAA/NESDIS Satellite Analysis Branch introduced the Hazard Mapping System (HMS) in 2002 to meet the demand for active fire and smoke information over North America. HMS is a near real-time fire and smoke monitoring system that utilizes the best available satellite data. It provides cumulative fire and smoke data statistics for all 50 U.S. states, helping to track the spread of fires and assess their impact on air quality.
By employing these tracking and monitoring methods, organizations and individuals can better understand the extent and impact of fire pollution, enabling them to take proactive measures to safeguard public health and mitigate the effects of wildfire smoke on air quality.
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Reducing exposure to fire pollution
Wildfires in Canada and the Northern U.S. can cause smoke and fire pollution in Washington. This typically happens during the summer months, from July to September, and sometimes in late spring. While the timing is typical for the region, the size and severity of these fires are above normal.
Stay informed
Pay attention to local air quality reports, news coverage, and health warnings. Websites like AirNow provide an Air Quality Index (AQI) and offer recommendations to protect your health when air pollution gets bad. The EPA Fire & Smoke Map also provides information on fire locations and smoke levels. Knowing the current and anticipated levels of exposure can help you take appropriate precautions.
Evacuation
In severe cases, evacuation may be the best option to reduce exposure to fire pollution. If advised to evacuate, follow the instructions provided by local authorities and move to a designated safe area.
Stay indoors
When smoke levels are high, it is advisable to stay indoors as much as possible. Keep windows and doors closed to prevent smoke from entering your home. Avoid activities that burn, such as using fireplaces, gas stoves, or candles, as they can further deteriorate indoor air quality. Refrain from smoking and vacuuming, as they can stir up particles in the air.
Reduce physical activity
Limit outdoor physical activities, especially in areas with visible haze or odor. If you must go outside, try to minimise your exposure by wearing a mask or respirator.
Air filtration
Consider using air filtration systems or creating a low-cost clean air fan by combining a fan with a filter. These can help reduce harmful particles in the air, improving the indoor air quality.
Wear respiratory protection
When going outdoors, wear a well-fitted respirator or mask to reduce the inhalation of harmful particles. Respirators are intended for use in emergencies or when higher-level controls are not feasible or implemented.
It is important to note that individuals with pre-existing respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, pregnant women, young children, and older adults are more susceptible to the adverse effects of smoke and air pollutants. Always follow the recommendations of healthcare professionals and take any prescribed medications as directed.
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Frequently asked questions
In 2025, fire pollution from Canadian wildfires is expected to reach as far south in Washington as Seattle-Tacoma-Bellevue and Spokane-Spokane Valley.
Smoke from wildfires in northern British Columbia is often carried down to the U.S. by the jet stream, a ribbon of air that encircles the Northern Hemisphere at altitude.
Wildfire smoke is the largest source of particle pollution in Washington. Breathing in smoke causes wheezing and coughing, heart and lung disease, and even death.
You can monitor the smoke forecast and plan outdoor activities accordingly to reduce your exposure to air pollution. You can also make a low-cost, effective air cleaner with a simple fan-filter combination to reduce harmful particles in the air.
