KLAMATH FALLS, Ore. — The National Weather Service in Medford issued an air stagnation advisory, which is in effect until noon Friday, December 3.
Poor mixing heights and light winds will keep stagnant conditions in place through at least Friday morning. Pollutants may be trapped near the ground level and this may result in reduced air quality at times.
Diminished air quality can create respiratory problems, especially for sensitive groups, such as those with asthma or other lung diseases.
The air stagnation advisory predicts there will be little or no wind in the Klamath Basin. Smoke and other airborne pollution will increase in concentration, causing a build-up that will not be carried out of the basin. The increase in airborne pollution can be unhealthy for outdoor physical activity and may contribute to health problems including coughing or aggravated asthma. The current air quality index, which gives current air quality conditions along with related health concerns and precautions, is available at: http://www.deq.state.or.us/aqi/
To reduce pollution buildup, the Klamath County air quality and burning advisory is red starting at 8 a.m. today, November 29. It will remain in effect until noon on Friday, December 3, unless conditions improve. Check the advisory each day for possible updates at https://www.klamathcounty.org/383/Air-Quality
A red advisory means:
Inside the Air Quality Zone:
- The use of wood-burning fireplaces, certified and non-certified wood stoves and fireplace inserts is prohibited.
- Only pellet stoves may be used.
Outside the Air Quality Zone:
- Residents outside the Air Quality Zone should use an alternate source of heat especially during the overnight hours.
- Burn only very dry wood and burn small hot fires. Do not allow your wood stove to smolder at night. Monitor your wood stove emissions to assure that smoke does not build up in the community. Consider using bio bricks to limit emissions if your wood is not dry.
- Pellet stoves may be used.
County wide:
- Outdoor or open burning is prohibited.
Enforcement patrols will be operating during this period; information and fines may be issued. Klamath County is in non attainment status with the Environmental Protection Agency for Particulate Matter 2.5 (PM2.5) standards. Air quality must be kept within standards. Residents can help by following the advisory each day.
For questions about the boundaries of the Air Quality Zone, consult the Klamath County web site at https://www.klamathcounty.org/DocumentCenter/View/1019/Map-of-the-Air-Quality-Zone-PDF.