Wildfire smoke from fires located southwest of the Interstate 90 corridor is producing unhealthy air for the Spokane and Coeur d'Alene area on Friday, and winds are expected to continue transporting smoke into the region through the evening and into the weekend.
Air quality and health guidance
The plume of smoke is creating conditions that could be harmful for sensitive groups and the general population. For public safety, limit time spent outdoors where you are exposed to smoke and take steps to reduce inhalation of particulate matter.
- Where: Spokane and Coeur d'Alene area along the I-90 corridor
- Cause: Smoke from wildfires to the southwest
- Duration: Smoke and haze likely through the weekend, with winds continuing from fires in Oregon and central Washington through Sunday
Weather context
Temperatures are expected to be somewhat cooler than midweek, with daytime highs in the upper 80s to low 90s. A few stronger storms may develop later Friday near the Montana-Idaho state line, while most of the region remains dry through the weekend. Forecast models indicate a warming trend is likely next week.
| Element | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Air quality | Unhealthy for Spokane/Coeur d'Alene |
| Temperatures | Upper 80s–low 90s (highs) |
| Precipitation | Dry across most areas; isolated strong storms possible near MT‑ID line |
| Smoke persistence | Likely through the weekend due to winds from Oregon and central Washington |
What residents should do
Reduce outdoor activity, especially if you are in a sensitive group (older adults, children, people with respiratory or heart conditions). When outdoors cannot be avoided, consider limiting exertion and using an appropriate particle-filtering mask if available. Stay informed of changing air-quality reports and follow local health or emergency guidance.
Authorities note that while some afternoon improvement in air quality may occur, prevailing winds are expected to maintain smoke transport into the region through Sunday, extending haze and reduced air quality into the weekend. Residents should prepare for variable conditions and a likely warming trend beginning next week.
