Spokesman Review
PORTLAND, Ore. - A wildfire burning in Central Oregon is affecting the air quality in the Portland area.
Department of Environmental Quality monitors in the Willamette Valley show moderately smoky conditions. Agency spokesman William Knight told the Oregonianthat cyclists should stay hydrated and avoid overly strenuous rides. Runners should also take precautions.
The Pole Creek fire southwest of Sisters has burned 17,500 acres since igniting Sept. 9. It is 15 percent contained.
Firefighters reinforced containment lines Tuesday to keep the fire from spreading.
More than 1,200 firefighters and support personnel are battling the blaze with about 150 homes under an evacuation alert.
The air quality in Sisters is hazardous. The American Red Cross has set up a shelter in the Sisters Elementary School for those with breathing problems.
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