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Air quality warning
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Wildfires and dust storms across the U.S. trigger air quality warnings. Sensitive groups face health risks from smoke and particulate pollution.
Background
Multiple wildfires and dust storms across the U.S. have led to air quality advisories in several states. In Miami-Dade, a wildfire sparked smoke that prompted an alert. In Nevada, monsoon storms in Arizona blew dust into the Las Vegas Valley. Other fires in New Mexico, Oregon, and Washington also contributed to poor air quality.
How it unfolded
- Aug 20, 2026Miami-Dade County under air quality alert due to wildfire smoke; Clark County issues dust advisory for Las Vegas Valley.
- Aug 24, 2026Air quality advisory issued for Baker and Umatilla Counties in Oregon due to multiple wildfires.
- Aug 25, 2026Whatcom County in Washington warned of unhealthy air quality from wildfire smoke.
- Aug 26, 2026Merced County tire fire continues to burn, prompting air quality warnings.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- National Weather Service and local agencies advise sensitive groups to limit outdoor activities and stay indoors.
- Expert
- Dr. Chelsea Langer of NMDOH recommends setting up a clean room and monitoring the Air Quality Index.