
August 5, 2026, Seattle, Washington, USA: The sun sets in a deep orange glow over the Ballard neighborhood, casting a dim light over Puget Sound as heavy wildfire smoke completely obscures the Olympic Mountains from view. An intense summer heatwave pushed daytime temperatures well into the upper 90s across Western Washington. Combined with a total absence of wind, the stagnant air has caused regional air quality levels to plummet into categories deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups and the general public. (Credit Image: © Shane Srogi/ZUMA Press Wire)
Scott Mc Kiernan, Founder & Editor-in-Chief, ZUMA Press










