Smoke from record-setting wildfires along the West Coast is blowing into the area, causing a visible haze and hazardous air quality.
The Thurston County Department of Public Health and Social Services declared the smoky conditions a hazardous weather event, a declaration that increases shelter capacity and services for vulnerable people.
“The current air quality in Thurston County is currently considered unsafe for certain groups, such as older adults and those with lung disease, asthma and other underlying conditions. People who live outside are especially at risk, and we want to make sure there are additional places they can go to escape the smoky conditions in our community,” said Thurston County Public Health and Social Services Director Schelli Slaughter in a press release.
The order goes into effect 5 p.m. today and lasts until Monday, Sept. 14. During that time, increased overnight shelter options are available at Interfaith Works Emergency Overnight Shelter at First Christian Church, located at 701 Franklin St. SE, Olympia. According to the press release, all COVID-19 safety measures will still be in place at the shelter.
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