Updated Thursday, Aug. 6, at 9 a.m.
There are NO smoke emergencies or active wildfires in Multnomah County at this time. Wildfire smoke from fires in Oregon and Washington entered Multnomah County Monday afternoon and are expected to improve throughout the day. East Multnomah County may be a bit slower to clear out due to the proximity to the Grasshopper fire near Mt. Hood. The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued a smoke and ozone advisory for Multnomah County.
Areas in East Multnomah County may continue to see some hours in “red” Air Quality Index Levels — which is unhealthy for all people — with relief forecasted as the Portland metro gets into evening hours today. Ozone pollution, also known as smog, is expected to be elevated across the County in the afternoon hours.
This year there is a new option for East County residents seeking cooler, cleaner air. The East County Library opened on May 16, 2026, with modern cooling and filtration systems. Community members are invited to take a break in a cool space with cleaner air. For any library, always confirm hours and locations before you go.
The combination of wildfire smoke and extreme heat is dangerous to people’s health, especially for young children playing outside or at summer camps. It’s important for care providers to consider adjusting activities as much as possible.
The 211info contact center is open extended hours to help Oregonians find wildfire and clean air information and available resources. Currently, you can call 211 for wildfire and clean air information and resources 24/7 for things like evacuation updates, wildfire and clean air shelter information, livestock resources, reentry and preparedness.
Can I Burn Today?
Last update: August 5, 9:30 am
Wood burning status: RED
The Multnomah County Health Department is issuing a red day due to forecasted pollution levels from wildfire smoke. Smog may also occur.
The restriction starts at noon on August 3. Residents and businesses may receive citations for burning wood today unless they have a valid exemption from the Health Department.
A burn ban is in effect by the Fire Marshall in all areas of Multnomah County. No outdoor burning is allowed by the Fire Department. A burn ban for safety applies to all burning even if there are no public health restrictions. Use extreme caution when cooking outside. Call 9-1-1 for an immediate response to dangerous fires.
Smoke from fires can affect you and your neighbors in various ways. Wood smoke is a health hazard and makes it hard to breathe.
Get the latest updates by bookmarking this page: https://multco.us/info/wood-burning-restrictions.
Precautions to protect your health from smoke include:
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Staying inside: Take it easy and listen to your body. Stay inside where ozone and particulate matter levels are usually lower, with windows and doors closed (if temperatures allow).
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Keeping indoor air clean: If available, set AC to recirculate. Use portable air cleaners and a good HVAC/furnace filter with a MERV rating of 13 or higher. If you experience symptoms, try to create a “clean room” where the air is as clean as possible.
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Limiting or rescheduling outside activities: If you or your family must be active outdoors, try to schedule activities when the air has cleared and temperatures are cooler. People sensitive to or at risk from air pollution may consider using a NIOSH-approved N95 or better mask if they need to go outside. Masks do not protect from gases.
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Checking on neighbors: Ensure older family members and those with respiratory issues are breathing easily.