News

Heather Meadows Visitor Center closes as air quality worsens in Whatcom County

Heather Meadows Visitor Center closes as air quality worsens in Whatcom County

Courtesy of the USFS Photo: Contributed


WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – As air quality worsens in eastern Whatcom County, at least one closure has been announced to keep recreationists safe.

The U.S. Forest Service says that the Heather Meadows Visitor Center will close when air quality index levels exceed 150 with no signs of improvement.

Throughout Friday, levels have varied between 160 to 175. Any levels above 150 are considered unhealthy for anyone.

Air quality stations near the Perry Fire have reported levels as high as 250, which is considered very unhealthy.

In western Whatcom County, air quality reports show parts of Bellingham ranging between 55 to the low 100s.

Latest Headlines

14 hours ago in National

Kiko weakens into a tropical storm but brings dangerous surf to Hawaii

Tropical Storm Kiko was creating high surf and rip currents for parts of Hawaii even as the system weakened just to the north of the islands, forecasters said.

14 hours ago in Lifestyle, Trending

Apple has unveiled its iPhone 17 lineup, including the first iPhone Air. Here’s what’s new

Apple's iPhone 17 lineup is here. The tech giant on Tuesday unveiled four new models that mark the latest editions to its marquee product.

21 hours ago in National

Hegseth and Caine visit Puerto Rico as US steps up military operations in the Caribbean

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Air Force Gen. Dan Caine, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, arrived in Puerto Rico on Monday for an unexpected visit as the U.S. steps up its military operations against drug cartels in the Caribbean.