Wildfire Smoke to Impact Large Swath of U.S. This Week
Wildfire Smoke to Impact Large Swath of U.S. This Week
US · Published Jul 28, 2026
Smoke from 46 large uncontained wildfires in Oregon and Washington, along with smaller fires in the Pacific Northwest, is creating hazy skies and unhealthy air quality across the northern U.S.
and parts of the South.

Impact & Risks

The wildfire smoke poses significant health risks, particularly to sensitive groups such as individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions, young children, and the elderly. Areas near Boise, Idaho, and parts of eastern Oregon and southern Idaho are experiencing unhealthy to very unhealthy air quality. Prolonged exposure to fine particulate matter in wildfire smoke can lead to serious health issues, including lung and cardiovascular damage. While the smoke is expected to travel as far as Florida, the health risks in the southern states are anticipated to be less severe.

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