Cold weather, a temperature inversion and stagnant air have combined to trap the particles from burning wood and fuel exhaust.
The county was out of compliance with federal standards on Wednesday for a second time, and projections for Saturday would bring make for a third time.
That would mean the region hasn't met its goals, leading to tighter 2014 restrictions, including a ban on open fireplaces and further regulation of industry.
A county commissioner says he'll seek an exception on the grounds the recent conditions are an extreme weather event.
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