Alerts

Friday NOV 4, 2022 Active weather next 7 days

Posted:

2 strong weather systems are expected to impact Clark County over the next week or so. We are expecting a strong atmospheric river rain/wind event Friday through Saturday and a strong low pressure system next Monday through Wednesday bringing cold temperatures and potential low elevation snow. Clark County weather highlights:

  • Atmospheric River (Friday(11/4) - Saturday(11/5)
    • Strong Atmospheric River lasting 2 days
    • Up to 3.5 inches of rain in 2 day period
    • Longer duration than normal, not typical rain event
    • Wind will continue today through Friday, valley gusts up to 40 mph
  • Low pressure Cold Temperature System (Monday(11/7) - Wednesday (11/9)
    • Lowest snow levels of the season
    • Measurable snow at elevation of 1,500-2,000 feet
    • Valley temperatures in the lower 30s
    • Could see snow on the valley floor (accumulation unlikely)
  • Visit NWS Portland office for full details https://www.weather.gov/pqr/

Impacts:

  • No river flooding expected, small stream/creek flooding likely
  • Snow will be wet/heavy, damage to trees to largest impact
  • Unseasonably cold and wet weather will have impacts on the unhoused population
  • Local steam flooding and downed limbs and power lines could disrupt transportation
  • Potential for power outages due to wind and downed limbs

Air Quality Due to Wildfire Smoke

Posted:

Tuesday 10/18/2022

Vancouver, Wash. – Air quality has reached unhealthy levels in parts of Clark County due to smoke from wildfires. Clark County Public Health is urging residents to regularly monitor local air quality and take steps to protect their health while air is smoky.

Air quality in Clark County currently ranges from moderate in Vancouver to unhealthy in north Clark County, according to Washington State Department of Ecology’s Air Monitoring Network. When air quality is in the unhealthy category everyone, especially sensitive groups, should limit time outdoors, avoid strenuous outdoor activities and take steps to keep indoor air cleaner.

Public Health also recommends keeping children indoors and canceling children’s outdoor athletic events and activities when air quality is unhealthy. Schools, child care facilities, before and after school programs and youth sports programs should refer to state Department of Health guidance for protecting the health of children when air is smoky. Organizers of outdoor public events should also consider canceling events when air is unhealthy.

Breathing smoke from wildfires isn’t healthy for anyone, but some people are more likely to have health problems when the air quality isn’t good. People at risk for problems include children, adults older than 65, people with heart and lung diseases, people with respiratory infections and colds, people who have had a stroke, pregnant people and people who smoke.

When air is smoky, even healthy people can have symptoms or health problems. Symptoms can range from minor irritation to life-threatening complications, including:

  • Sore throat
  • Headaches
  • Burning eyes
  • Coughing
  • Wheezing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain

People with heart or lung diseases should follow the medical management plans created with their health care providers. Those experiencing serious symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest pain, should seek immediate medical care.

Here are additional steps people can take to improve indoor air quality and protect their health when air is smoky:

  • Keep windows and doors closed.
  • Create a cleaner-air room in the home using a portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter. Choose a room with no fireplace and few windows and doors.
  • Turn the air conditioner in the home and vehicle to recirculate to avoid bringing smoky outdoor air inside.
  • Don’t pollute indoor air. Avoid burning candles, using aerosol products, frying food and smoking.
  • Do not vacuum unless using a vacuum with a HEPA filter. Vacuuming stirs up dust and smoke particles.
  • Seek indoor shelter or public places with monitored air quality if air in the home cannot be improved.
  • Use and properly wear a respiratory mask labeled N95, if appropriate. People who must be outside for extended periods of time in smoky air may benefit from wearing one of these masks, if worn correctly. If the mask does not fit properly, it will provide little or no protection and may offer a false sense of security. These masks are not recommended for children or people with beards. People with lung disease, heart disease or who are chronically ill should consult a health care provider before using a mask.

Additional resources:

WSU Vancouver Campus Crime Alert

Posted:

The WSU Vancouver campus has experienced multiple catalytic converter thefts and several attempts over the past few months. Unfortunately the state of Washington has experienced a 10,000% jump in catalytic converter theft since 2019 (https://komonews.com/news-brief-newsletter/data-shows-10000-increase-in-washington-catalytic-converter-thefts-officials-weigh-in ) and WSU Vancouver is not immune to this crime. Catalytic converter thefts can take only minutes and perpetrators typically use portable electric saws and car jacks for quick access.

Please notify Public Safety if you observe suspicious activity. 360-546-9001 or 911