SPOKANE, Wash. — The Inland Northwest is not getting any relief from wildfire smoke. Unhealthy air quality has closed City of Spokane aquatic centers on Tuesday, according to city Parks and Recreation officials.
A city spokesperson said the pools close when the index reaches the unhealthy category. The pools will reopen once the air quality improves.
SplashPass holders will receive updates via email if circumstances change, officials said.
The air quality index is sitting above 170, according to the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency. The air quality index reaches the unhealthy range once it hits 150.
The National Weather Service has issued an air quality alert for areas throughout central and Eastern Washington.
There are more than 30 wildfires burning in or around our region. Additional smoke is drifting into our area from Canadian and Cascade wildfires.
FEMA recently authorized federal funds to fight three major wildfires burning in central and eastern Washington, including the Grass Valley Fire in Douglas and Grant Counties.
Changing winds may improve the air quality later in the day, according to the Spokane Regional Clean Air Agency.
Widespread haze and smoke will remain in our area throughout the week. View your full seven-day forecast here.