An air quality advisory has been issued for Thursday in the Salem and Portland-Vancouver metro areas due to elevated levels of ozone pollution or smog, according to The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality.
The DEQ anticipates ozone pollution to reach levels that could be unhealthy for sensitive groups on Thursday and Friday.
The National Weather Service issued an excessive heat warning from noon Thursday to 10 p.m. on Friday as temperatures rise toward 100 both days in Portland, Salem and Eugene.
Health officials recommend sensitive groups, including children, pregnant people, older adults and people with heart disease or respiratory conditions limit outdoor activities while levels are high.
Recommendations include:
- Limit driving by using public transit, carpooling or other alternative transportation.
- Avoid unnecessary engine idling.
- Refuel vehicles during cooler evening hours.
- Postpone yard work that uses gas-powered equipment.
- Postpone painting and aerosol spray projects.