Assessing Air Quality Trends in Central Oregon with DEQ Sensors

Air quality is more than just a health concern; it impacts our daily lives and the environment we inhabit. Central Oregon has witnessed significant changes in air quality over the last decade. With the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) sensors across the region, we have a wealth of data that highlights both natural events and human activities affecting air quality. Most of the year, we breathe clean un-polluted air living in beautiful Cetral Oregon. However, during smoke season we need to do all we can to avoid prolonged exposure.

The Importance of Air Quality Monitoring

Understanding air quality is critical for safeguarding our health and the environment. Pollutants such as particulate matter (PM), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), and ozone (O3) contribute to serious health problems, including respiratory illnesses and heart disease. For example, according to the American Lung Association, exposure to elevated levels of air pollution can increase the risk of premature death by up to 15%.

Seasonal Wildfire Smoke Effects on AQI

Seasonal wildfire smoke significantly affects air quality, leading to elevated levels of particulate matter (PM) and other pollutants that can severely impact the Air Quality Index (AQI). During wildfire season, the combustion of vegetation releases a complex mixture of harmful substances, including PM, carbon monoxide (CO), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These pollutants can drastically reduce air quality, causing the AQI to rise to unhealthy levels, especially in regions close to active wildfires. The fine particulate matter generated by wildfire smoke can penetrate deep into our bodies, exacerbating health issues such as asthma, bronchitis, and cardiovascular diseases, particularly among vulnerable populations like children and the elderly.

Bend endured 21 days where the average AQI was above 101 in 2023. We need to do our best to avoid breathing polluted outdoor air during smoke season. The air quality data by the DEQ provides essential insights into Central Oregon's environmental health trajectory. We must protect ourselves from the health effects of wildfire smoke now to avoid long term health risks in the future.

The insights drawn from DEQ sensors are more than just numbers; they are a call to action for everyone interested in protecting their well-being.

Number of days in Bend, OR with unhealthy air