'Lost the Space Needle': Wildfire Smoke Makes Seattle's Air Quality Among Worst in the World

Smoke from large wildfires burning in Washington state shrouded Seattle on September 11, causing the air quality to plummet to among the world’s worst.

According to data from the US government-run website AirNow, Seattle recorded AQI (Air Quality Index) readings as high as 222.

Local media reported the air quality of Seattle and other cities affected by the wildfire smoke, such as Portland and San Francisco, was the worst in the world.

The Centers for Disease Control said wildfire smoke could make people more susceptible to lung infections, including the COVID-19.

Washington Gov Jay Inslee said 626,982 acres had burned in the five days prior, making it the second-worst fire season on record. Credit: Grayson Roze via Storyful