A fairgoer wears an N95 respirator while walking the grounds of the Crook County Fair in Prineville, Ore., on Aug. 5, 2026. Wildfire smoke settled over the fairgrounds on opening day, prompting some attendees to mask up against the haze.
Eleanor Moseman for OPB
Oregon’s wildfire season has been severe, resulting in smoky air in communities all over the state.
Central Oregon now ranks among the worst air quality in the nation, with wildfire smoke significantly affecting the region.
We’ll hear from Crook County Public Health Director Katie Plumb about how people can help keep themselves safe from the smoke.
“Think Out Loud®” broadcasts live at noon every day and rebroadcasts at 8 p.m.
If you’d like to comment on any of the topics in this show or suggest a topic of your own, please get in touch with us on Facebook, send an email to thinkoutloud@opb.org, or you can leave a voicemail for us at 503-293-1983.
