The Bench Fire burning southwest of Warm Springs, combined with other large wildfires across Central Oregon, has produced a thick, persistent smoke layer that is affecting air quality from Madras to Culver and beyond. If you are staying in Jefferson County during the current fire emergency, here is what you need to know to protect your health.

Current Air Quality Conditions

As of early Thursday morning, Madras is reporting an Air Quality Index (AQI) in the moderate range, driven by fine particulate matter (PM2.5) from wildfire smoke. Conditions can shift quickly depending on wind direction and fire activity. The Oregon Smoke Information blog at oregonsmoke.org and the EPA's AirNow at airnow.gov provide up-to-date hourly readings for Jefferson County.

Oregon DEQ and partner agencies have issued air quality advisories for Central Oregon that are expected to remain in effect as long as the Bench Fire continues to generate heavy smoke. A smoke forecast specific to the Bench Fire is available at outlooks.airfire.org/outlook/6aaf6480.

Who Is Most At Risk

Wildfire smoke is a complex mixture of gases and fine particles. Even short-term exposure can cause eye and throat irritation, coughing, and shortness of breath in otherwise healthy adults. The following groups face greater health risks and should take extra precautions:

  • Children and infants
  • Adults 65 and older
  • Pregnant women
  • Anyone with asthma, COPD, heart disease, or other respiratory or cardiovascular conditions
  • Outdoor workers

What You Can Do

Oregon Health Authority and Jefferson County Public Health recommend the following steps when smoke is heavy:

  • Stay indoors with windows and doors closed as much as possible
  • Run an air purifier with a HEPA filter if available — or create a DIY air cleaner with a box fan and a MERV-13 furnace filter
  • Avoid vigorous outdoor activity during peak smoke hours, typically midday to early evening
  • Wear an N95 or KN95 mask if you must be outside — cloth masks and surgical masks offer minimal protection against fine particulate matter
  • Do not burn anything indoors, including candles or wood in fireplaces — this adds to indoor air pollution
  • Check on neighbors, especially elderly residents who may lack air conditioning or air filtration

Cooling Centers and Clean Air Spaces

Jefferson County residents without air conditioning or adequate air filtration at home can seek clean air relief at local cooling centers. Contact Jefferson County Public Health at (541) 475-4456 for current locations and hours, or check the county's emergency management page for updated clean air site listings.

When to Seek Medical Care

If you or a family member experiences chest pain, difficulty breathing, severe coughing, or lightheadedness, seek medical attention immediately. The Mountain View Hospital emergency department in Madras is open 24 hours. For non-emergency health questions, Oregon 211 (dial 211) can connect you with local health resources.

Air quality is expected to fluctuate over the coming days as the Bench Fire remains active. Continue monitoring local conditions and follow guidance from Jefferson County Emergency Management and Oregon DEQ.