The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued a statewide air quality advisory. This pollution episode has affected a total of 13 counties in the state’s eastern and central regions, where PM2.5 concentrations in the air have risen to the “Unhealthy” level; in cities such as Boise, air quality has remained in the “Very Unhealthy” range for an extended period. Due to continuous exposure to harmful particulate matter, local hospitals have seen a significant increase in emergency room visits for respiratory illnesses. Environmental authorities are advising residents to keep doors and windows tightly closed and to minimize unnecessary outdoor activities.
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