January 14, 2022 11:20 a.m.

An Air Quality Alert is in effect until Monday morning for much of southern Oregon with an Air Stagnation Advisory in place until 12:00 p.m. on Monday.

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued the Alert due to stagnant air conditions trapping smoke and other pollutants near the ground where people breath.

Forecasters at the National Weather Service said the Advisory means air stagnation is likely to result in diminishing air quality with time, especially in and near areas with significant sources of air pollution.

DEQ said residents should follow local burn restrictions to prevent deteriorating air quality. They should avoid strenuous outdoor activity and recreation. People with heart or lung problems and young children are especially vulnerable. Those residents should stay inside while particulate levels are high. N95 masks are effective at filtering out the majority of harmful air particulates.

Stay with News Radio 1240 KQEN and check www.541radio.com for updates on the air quality situation.