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Air quality alert extended, but conditions should improve

Published 1:30 am Tuesday, September 5, 2017

Air quality alert extended, but conditions should improve
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Air quality alert extended, but conditions should improve
The air was so thick with smoke that the sun could not be seen as it set in this Tuesday evening view overlooking Naval Station Everett. (Sue Misao / The Herald)

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EVERETT — An air quality alert has been extended through 5 p.m. Wednesday as more smoke rolls into Snohomish County.

Many people found ash on their cars Tuesday morning. Smoke from wildfires burning in Eastern Washington and Montana has drifted west, according to the National Weather Service in Seattle. Communities near the Cascade Range are most affected under the alert.

The smoke is considered to be unhealthy for sensitive groups, such as children, older adults and people with respiratory illnesses. The Weather Service suggested they limit time outdoors.

At least two local school districts, Marysville and Granite Falls, announced early Tuesday afternoon that sports events had been postponed because of the poor air quality.

Conditions are predicted to improve overnight for those living near Puget Sound. Meteorologists said the marine air will push smoke out of the area.