The Washington State Cougars practiced indoors on Sunday because of smoke caused by nearby fires. It might not be the last time.

For the Cougars to practice outside, the Pullman Air Quality Index (API) must be 150 or lower. Anything between 151 and 200 is considered "unhealthy." In recent days the API in the Pullman-Moscow area has climbed as high as the low-300s, which falls in the "hazardous" range.

When Sunday's practice was moved indoors, the Pullman API was about 190, approaching "very unhealthy" levels. Right now the API is about 168, so if the Cougars held a Monday practice it would be moved indoors.

Nearby fires and a lack of wind or rain are expected to keep smoke in the area until at least Wednesday, and the Washington Department of Ecology has issued an air quality alert for Whitman County. 

So, don't be surprised if the Cougars hold a few more indoor practices this week.

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