Air Quality Alert Issued for Central Colorado Due to Wildfire Smoke

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke affecting Eagle, Pitkin, Summit, and Lake Counties. The advisory is in effect from 4:30 PM on Wednesday, August 20, until 9:00 AM on Thursday, August 21.

The smoke is primarily coming from the Derby Fire, impacting central Colorado. While the heaviest smoke is expected near the fire, moderate to heavy smoke may be present throughout the advisory area overnight Wednesday and into Thursday morning.

Public health recommendations advise residents to stay indoors if smoke becomes thick in their neighborhood, especially individuals with heart disease, respiratory illnesses, young children, and older adults. Limiting outdoor activities when moderate to heavy smoke is present is also recommended. If indoor smoke levels are making individuals ill, temporary relocation is suggested. Visibility of less than 5 miles in smoke indicates unhealthy levels.

This advisory serves as a crucial warning for residents in the affected areas to take necessary precautions to safeguard their health and well-being amidst the wildfire smoke.

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Reference:
– https://api.weather.gov/alerts/urn:oid:2.49.0.1.840.0.90ff6908f3a0f62f0cce7109f0e59249783e8196.001.1.cap

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