Smoke in the air can result from various sources, including nearby bushfires, planned burns, and even interstate fires. Identifying the source is crucial to understanding potential health risks and taking necessary precautions. Air quality forecasts and smoke outlooks from state environmental agencies provide vital information on current and predicted conditions, often categorising air quality based on pollutants like ozone, particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide.
Smoke from distant bushfires can travel vast distances, affecting air quality far from the fire’s origin. Atmospheric conditions, such as wind patterns, significantly influence smoke plume movement. While much of the smoke might stay high in the atmosphere, some can mix down to ground level, causing hazy skies and reduced visibility.
Even small bushfires or planned burns can contribute to localised smoke. Planned burns, intentionally lit for land management, can produce smoke impacting nearby communities. Staying informed about planned burns in your area and monitoring air quality reports for potential smoke impacts is essential. Unexplained smoke in your neighbourhood could indicate a smaller, unreported fire or a planned burn.
People with pre-existing health conditions, like heart or lung problems, are particularly vulnerable to smoke’s effects. Children and the elderly are also more susceptible. During smoky conditions, these groups should limit outdoor activities, especially strenuous exercise. Staying indoors with windows and doors closed reduces smoke exposure. If smoke levels are high or health issues arise, consider temporarily relocating to an area with cleaner air. Air quality maps and monitoring websites can help locate areas with better air quality. Significantly reduced visibility due to smoke indicates unhealthy levels requiring immediate precautions.