PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Multiple wildfires in southern Oregon have caused some of the cities to have the worst air quality in the country.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, Shady Cove’s air quality is “hazardous,” which means the entire community is likely affected.
Ashland, Klamath Falls and Medford have “very unhealthy” air while Cave Junction’s air quality is considered “unhealthy.”
Once the air quality reaches an “unhealthy” level, everyone in the area can start to experience some side effects — especially those in sensitive groups.
The poor air quality is a result from the 13 wildfires burning in the area.
As of Sunday, more than 1,800 firefighters and 30 aircrafts are battling the Garner Complex in Jackson and Josephine counties. Troops from the National Guard also arrived to help.
The fire has scorched about 12 square miles and was about 10% contained on Sunday morning.
The Garner Complex is a collection of fires that started after lightning storms on July 15. It includes the Taylor Creek Fire, Spencer Fire, King Mountain Fire and Swamp Fire.
Other fires burning in southern Oregon
Jackson County: Hendrix Fire, Sugar Pine Fire
Siskiyou County: Natchez Fire
Douglas County: South Umpqua Complex Fire
The Associated Press contributed to this report