Wildfire smoke triggers unhealthy air quality alerts across eastern Oregon, Washington
By Griffin Beach on Tuesday, August 4th, 2026 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
PENDLETON – An air quality alert is in effect Tuesday as monitors show levels that could be hazardous.
The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality issued the alert due to wildfire smoke across the region.
As of Tuesday morning, air quality monitors in Pendleton, Walla Walla, La Grande, Baker City, Ontario, John Day and Burns show levels measured as unhealthy. Some members of the general public could experience health effects, while sensitive groups may experience more serious health issues.
Monitors in the Tri-Cities also showed unhealthy levels.
Air quality monitors in Hermiston, Enterprise, and Elgin showed levels considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.
The state agency said pollutants in the smoke can cause burning eyes and a runny nose, and can aggravate heart and lung diseases.
Officials recommend limiting outdoor activities and keeping children indoors during smoky conditions.
Hazy/Smoky conditions near Eastern Oregon Regional Airport on Tuesday.
