New Information:
Click Here: Download Overview of Purple Air Monitor Data (June 7 - June 27)- The Purple Air Monitor data from June 7 to June 27 provides insights into air quality fluctuations over this period, specifically highlighting the impact of smoke. The data was analyzed using 3-hour and 24-hour time averages to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the air quality variations.
When the news from Lineage that the fire at the Lineage Logistics facility had been extinguished, BFHD took steps to deactivate and remove the Purple Air sensors in the Finley area that week. These sensors were best designed to measure fine particles in the air, like those that come from smoke, but they did not accurately capture larger dust particles coming from construction, demolition, or even a windy day.
For the dust in the PM2.5 range, the particles tended to be larger than the sizes that many low-cost sensors, including PurpleAir monitors, were able to measure well. Because of that, PurpleAir monitors tended to severely underestimate concentrations of both PM2.5 and PM10 from dust. BFHD wanted to be mindful of providing meaningful data to the public—because the PurpleAir monitors were not reliable for dust, and dust was the primary concern from the Lineage site, BFHD deactivated these sensors on July 1, 2024.
How did we know the status of the air quality?
- A permanent SensWA meter remains in place at South Finley Road (Finley Middle School). This meter measures PM 2.5 and will be useful to monitor air quality during future smoke events, like wildfires.
- The Benton Clean Air Association was closely involved with monitoring this situation and sent staff to observe air quality frequently. BCAA had already made contact with Lineage and was in discussion about methods for dust suppression during the demolition process on this site. If residents had concerns that dust from the demolition process might be impacting them, BCAA (Benton Clean Air Association) could be contacted.
Locations for additional air monitoring sites can be found here: About the air monitoring network - Washington State Department of Ecology
How can I track status of the demolition?
Refer to the Lineage Logistics website for the latest information on progress of the cleanup.
Outdoor smoke contains very small particles and gases. These particles can get into your eyes and lungs where they can cause health problems. This information has been adapted from the Smoke From Fires | Washington State Department of Health. The same guidance for wildfire smoke also applies to the Lineage Logistics Fire.