Good morning!
I’m Lacy McKay.
Here’s your daily dose of the KSJD outdoor report…
Since it may be with us a while I wanna talk about Wildfire smoke today.
Mornings are often the worst time for smoke — as cooler air and calm winds let it sink into valleys and basins — while warmer afternoons usually help disperse it.
But changing weather patterns can shift where and when smoke is heaviest.
If it looks smoky outside, use common sense: avoid strenuous outdoor activity, especially for kids, older adults, or anyone with heart or lung conditions.
Keep windows closed and indoor air clean by avoiding burning anything, like candles or fireplaces, and use air conditioning on its recirculate setting if you have it.
Those with asthma or respiratory illness should follow their doctor’s guidance and be ready to leave the area if conditions worsen.
Staying aware of local air quality reports can help you know when to take action and protect your health during wildfire season.
That’s the KSJD Outdoor Report for today.
Stay safe out there.
Helpful links for smoke monitoring:
- AirNow Fire and Smoke Map – Real-time U.S. air quality and smoke plume information from the EPA and U.S. Forest Service.
- PurpleAir Map – Crowdsourced air quality sensor data, with PM2.5 readings you can filter by location.
- Windy.com Smoke Forecast Layer – Animated smoke and fire spread forecast using satellite data.
- Colorado Air Pollution Control Division – Air Quality Summary
- Colorado Smoke Outlook Blog
- CDC – Protect Yourself from Wildfire Smoke
- EPA – Smoke-Ready Toolbox for Wildfires
