TRI-CITIES, Wash. -- There's no question the weather outside is frightful, but area hospitals tell Action News they're not seeing more breathing complaints than during smokey stretches in years past.

Kadlec's Jim Hall says they're seeing people come in with complaints about respiratory issues but that's to be expected in this kind of weather.

He says health professionals are telling folks to stay inside if at all possible.

Especially those with underlying respiratory conditions as well as the very old and very young.

"It's just another challenge that's thrown our way in 2020," Hall explains. "Hopefully the light is at the end of the tunnel later this week where we can start to see some relief from this. But until then, take it seriously and not take any unnecessary chances."