Smoke in the air can be caused by a variety of factors, ranging from nearby wildfires to prescribed burns and even out-of-state fires. Determining the source of the smoke is the first step in understanding the potential health impacts and taking appropriate precautions. Air quality forecasts and smoke outlooks, like those issued by state environmental agencies, can provide valuable information about the current air quality and anticipated smoke conditions. These reports often categorize air quality based on the concentration of pollutants such as ozone, fine particulate matter, carbon monoxide, and nitrogen dioxide.
Smoke from distant wildfires can travel hundreds or even thousands of miles, impacting air quality in areas far removed from the fire’s origin. Atmospheric conditions, such as wind direction and speed, play a significant role in transporting smoke plumes. While much of the smoke may remain in the upper atmosphere, some can mix down to the surface, resulting in hazy skies and reduced visibility.
Even small wildfires or prescribed burns can contribute to localized smoke conditions. Prescribed burns, intentionally set fires used for land management purposes, can generate smoke that impacts nearby communities. It’s crucial to be aware of any planned prescribed burns in your area and to monitor air quality reports for potential smoke impacts. If you notice smoke in your neighborhood that is not explained by regional forecasts, it could be due to a smaller, unreported fire or a prescribed burn.
Individuals with pre-existing health conditions, such as heart or respiratory issues, are particularly vulnerable to the effects of smoke. Children and the elderly are also more susceptible to smoke-related health problems. When smoke is present, these sensitive groups should limit outdoor activities, especially strenuous exertion. Staying indoors with windows and doors closed can help reduce exposure to smoke. If smoke levels are high or if you experience any health issues due to smoke exposure, consider temporarily relocating to an area with better air quality. Air quality maps and monitoring websites can help you identify areas with cleaner air. If visibility is significantly reduced due to smoke, it indicates that smoke levels are unhealthy and immediate precautions should be taken.
