Despite the fact that multiple fires continue to burn fiercely throughout the state, the Umatilla County Public Health department has lifted an air quality advisory for the county and surrounding regions — at least, for the time being. Clear conditions and increased visibility contributed to the department’s decision to lift the advisory, according to a news release from the Umatilla County Public Health department.

Since fires began earlier this month, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality and Oregon Health Authority have sponsored a daily conference call with experts from areas affected by the wildfires. Director of Public Health for Umatilla County Meghan DeBolt wrote, “On this morning’s call, experts noted that although smoke is not as thick as earlier in the week, winds are expected to pick up tomorrow in Central Oregon, which may bring more smoke into Umatilla County.”

Thus, advisory’s status could change, and the public health department urges community members to regularly check the Oregon Smoke Blog at www.oregonsmoke.blogspot.com for current air quality reports.

In other news, DeBolt wrote that a statewide report has shown an increase in visits to primary care providers and pharmacies to refill inhalers for those who have chronic respiratory issues.

“This is exactly what we want to see,” wrote DeBolt. “People going to their doctor and being proactive, rather than waiting until they have an acute attack and rushing the ER.”