LAPWAI, ID – Residents across the Nez Perce Reservation are being urged to take precautions as smoke from regional wildfires pushes air quality into unhealthy ranges. The Nez Perce Tribe’s Environmental Resource and Waste Management (ERWM) Air Quality Program issued an advisory Friday, August 22, 2025, that will remain in effect through at least 9 a.m. Monday, August 25.
Air monitors show conditions swinging from “Moderate” to “Very Unhealthy” on the Air Quality Index, with smoke levels shifting quickly depending on fire activity and wind direction. Tribal officials noted that some areas may see heavier impacts than others as weather patterns change.
During the advisory, no EPA or tribal burn permits will be issued.
Health Impacts
The ERWM program stressed that certain groups—children, elders, pregnant women, and people with conditions such as asthma, COPD, heart disease, or diabetes—are most vulnerable to smoke exposure. At higher AQI levels, these individuals are advised to remain indoors and avoid exertion, while the general public should also limit outdoor activity when smoke thickens.
- Unhealthy (151–200 AQI): Sensitive groups should avoid heavy exertion outdoors; others should scale back activity.
- Very Unhealthy (201–300 AQI): Vulnerable residents should stay inside; everyone else should limit time outdoors.
- Hazardous (301–500 AQI): All residents should remain indoors and keep activity to a minimum.
Where to Find Updates
Air quality conditions can be tracked online through the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map and the Idaho Smoke Blog. Additional smoke and health information is available through the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and the Idaho Smoke Information Hotline at 1-800-345-1007.
For local updates, the Nez Perce Tribe ERWM Air Quality Program can be contacted at 1-800-720-4089 or airquality@nezperce.org.
