 due to wildfire smoke. Sensitive groups should take precautions. Latest update September 6, 2025.){kind=link}
Air quality Seattle is currently measured in the Moderate range, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) hovering around 79 as of September 6, 2025. The main pollutant impacting the city today is fine particulate matter (PM2.5), largely caused by smoke drifting into the Puget Sound region from nearby wildfires. While conditions are not severe, those who are sensitive to pollution—such as people with asthma, young children, or the elderly—are advised to limit prolonged outdoor activities.
The latest air quality readings show that Seattle’s atmosphere continues to be influenced by wildfire smoke, with visibility slightly reduced in some areas. Skies have remained hazy since the start of September due to multiple active wildfires across Washington. The most significant contributor has been the Bear Gulch Fire in Mason County, which has burned thousands of acres and remains only partially contained. Other fires in Chelan County, the North Cascades, and Eastern Washington are also adding to the haze.
Current Air Quality Snapshot
| Category | Status |
|---|---|
| AQI Level | 79 (Moderate) |
| Main Pollutant | PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) |
| Conditions | Hazy skies, mild smoke impact |
| Forecast | Moderate through weekend |
Seattle’s AQI has been fluctuating between the low 60s and high 80s over the past 24 hours. These values reflect a citywide average, though some neighborhoods closer to wildfire smoke plumes may see slightly higher readings.
What Is Driving the Haze in Seattle
Wildfires in Western Washington
The Bear Gulch Fire, located near Lake Cushman in Mason County, continues to send smoke drifting across the Puget Sound area. Its size and low containment levels have made it one of the largest fire events in Washington this season. With shifting winds, the smoke has reached urban centers including Seattle, Tacoma, and Olympia.
Regional Fire Activity
Other significant fires, such as the Sugarloaf Fire in Chelan County, the Perry Fire in the North Cascades, and the Lynx Mountain Fire in the northeast, are adding to Washington’s overall smoke problem. Together, these incidents are keeping Seattle’s air quality from fully clearing despite some improvements in weather.
Health Guidance for Residents
For most people, moderate air quality poses little immediate risk. However, sensitive groups should take precautions, especially if planning to spend time outdoors.
Recommended steps include:
- Keep windows closed and use fans or air conditioning set to recirculate air.
- Run air purifiers indoors to reduce smoke particles.
- Limit strenuous outdoor exercise, particularly for children and older adults.
- Use an N95 or KN95 mask outdoors if you are sensitive to smoke.
- Monitor local AQI updates frequently to plan daily activities.
Forecast for the Coming Days
Meteorologists expect that air quality in Seattle will remain in the Moderate range through the weekend. AQI readings may rise slightly into the 90s during the evenings, when smoke tends to settle, but conditions are not expected to reach the Unhealthy category at this time. A shift toward cooler temperatures and higher humidity could help ease smoke levels in the coming days, offering some relief to the region.
The broader outlook for September suggests that wildfire smoke may continue to affect the Pacific Northwest periodically, depending on weather patterns and containment progress on active fires. Residents should remain prepared for short-term fluctuations in air quality as winds change direction.
Why “Air Quality Seattle” Matters
The city’s air quality has become a recurring concern during late summer and early fall, when wildfire activity peaks across the state. Monitoring air quality in Seattle is especially important for families, schools, and healthcare providers caring for sensitive groups. While the current conditions are not dangerous for the general public, they serve as a reminder of the growing seasonal impact of wildfires on urban environments.
Conclusion
As of today, air quality Seattle remains moderate, with wildfire smoke being the primary factor affecting conditions. Sensitive individuals are advised to take simple protective measures, while the broader population can safely go about daily activities with minimal impact. With several fires still active across Washington, staying alert to daily AQI updates will be key in the days ahead.
Seattle residents are encouraged to share how the smoke has affected them and continue checking back for updates as conditions evolve.