Missoula County declares July 19 2025 Wildfire Smoke Ready Week

In the heart of Missoula, city officials gathered on July 14, 2025, to address a pressing public health concern: the dangers posed by wildfire smoke. As the summer heat intensified, so did the urgency of the discussions surrounding the proclamation of July 19 as "Wildfire Smoke Ready Week."

The meeting opened with a stark reminder of the growing threat wildfire smoke poses to the community. A representative from the city read a proclamation highlighting the serious health risks associated with smoke exposure, including worsened asthma attacks, decreased lung function, and increased susceptibility to infectious diseases. The proclamation underscored the need for proactive strategies to mitigate these risks, especially as forecasts predict significant wildfire potential across the Western United States.

The city’s Climate Ready Missoula plan was referenced, emphasizing the importance of public education and preparedness as wildfire seasons lengthen due to climate change. Resources from Missoula Public Health and Climate Smart Missoula were mentioned, aimed at helping residents understand the risks and take steps to protect themselves, such as creating indoor air filters and identifying clean air locations.

Councilor Jordan took the opportunity to share insights from a recent article by Professor John Quindrey of the University of Montana. The article discussed how outdoor activities during wildfire season can be hazardous, particularly due to fine particulate matter in smoke that can enter the lungs and bloodstream. He urged residents to monitor air quality and adjust their outdoor exercise routines accordingly, especially during elevated smoke levels.

As the meeting concluded, the council members and attendees were reminded of the immediate relevance of the proclamation, with the weather serving as a reminder that wildfire smoke could soon be a reality for the community. The discussions not only highlighted the risks but also fostered a sense of collective responsibility to prepare and protect the health of Missoula residents as wildfire season approaches.