Tri-Cities air quality worsens as wildfires swell in OR, WA
Air quality in the Tri-Cities continues to be impacted by swelling wildfires in Central Washington and Oregon that continue to choke the region.
Kennewick’s air quality dipped into “unhealthy” territory for sensitive groups briefly Wednesday evening before rebounding to “moderate” early Thursday, according to sensor data provided by the Washington Department of Ecology.
Tri-Cities air quality on Thursday remained “moderate” despite increasingly hazy conditions. Most people are OK to go outside, but sensitive individuals should keep outdoor activities “light and short.”
The Wildcat Fire, located about 30 miles from Naches, near Mount Rainier National Park, doubled in size Wednesday to about 5,500 acres.
It closed the Pacific Crest Trail and some forest roads as nearby residents been given notice to be ready to evacuate if needed. It is 0% contained as more than 200 firefighters, 14 engines and two helicopters fight the blazes, according to the Northwest Interagency Coordination Center.
Several other wildfires in the Washington range of the Cascade Mountains and in Eastern Washington have scorched an additional 10,000 acres and continue to be a hazardous.
The Emigrant Fire, in south-central Oregon, has burned more than 30,000 acres since it was started by lightning on Aug. 24. It is 0% contained, with nearly 1,200 personnel working it.
Ecology and the Yakima Regional Clear Air Agency has issued air quality alerts for most of Central Washington due to smoke caused by current and expected regional wildfires.
“When air quality is unhealthy, everyone should reduce exposure,” NWS says.
“Limit time outside, avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and follow tips for cleaner indoor air. Hot temperatures will increase the risk of heat-related illnesses. Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors,” the agency advised.
Much of the Mid-Columbia and beyond — from Wenatchee to Lewiston and down to The Dalles — remains under an extreme heat warning issued by the National Weather Service in Pendleton.
Expect subtle but widespread haze, and temperatures in the high 90s throughout the rest of the week in the Tri-Cities.
The weather service forecasts a reprieve next week — high temperatures in the 70s and 80s with a chance of showers.
This story was originally published September 3, 2025 at 5:56 PM.
