Explore

Arizona Thunderstorms Trigger Dust Advisory in Las Vegas Valley, Affecting Air Quality

Arizona Thunderstorms Trigger Dust Advisory in Las Vegas Valley, Affecting Air Quality

A dust advisory has been issued for Southern Nevada due to winds from Arizona thunderstorms that have carried dust into the region, according to Clark County officials. The dust has resulted in unhealthy air quality levels across the Las Vegas Valley. The advisory, initially set to expire at midnight on Monday, may be extended depending on overnight weather conditions. Air quality monitors recorded very unhealthy to hazardous levels of air pollution in the central Las Vegas Valley as of Monday morning. Although conditions improved to moderate levels by the afternoon, some areas remained unhealthy for sensitive groups. The advisory coincides with a seasonal ozone and wildfire smoke advisory in effect until September 30. The National Weather Service has also issued an extreme heat warning, with forecasts predicting thunderstorms and showers into the weekend.

Wildfire Smoke from Frijoles Fire Degrades Taos Valley Air Quality

Wildfire Smoke from Frijoles Fire Degrades Taos Valley Air Quality

Wildfire smoke from the Frijoles Fire has significantly impacted air quality in Taos Valley, New Mexico. On Monday, August 10, 2026, the Air Quality Index (AQI) at the Town of Taos Fire Station reached 103 earlier in the day, categorized as 'Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.' By mid-day, the AQI measured 91, falling within the 'Moderate' range. The pollution is primarily due to fine particulate matter from wildfire smoke, which poses health risks, especially for sensitive populations. Nearby Chimayo experienced even worse conditions earlier in the day, with an AQI of 200 ('Unhealthy') before improving to 106 ('Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups') by early afternoon.

Smoke and Winds Heighten Fire Concerns in Western Montana

Smoke and Winds Heighten Fire Concerns in Western Montana

Western Montana is experiencing significant smoke from wildfires, affecting air quality along the U.S. 93 corridor. The smoke is expected to linger, with air quality ranging from unhealthy for sensitive groups to unhealthy overall. Increasing winds this afternoon may improve visibility and air quality but also raise fire danger. Red Flag Warnings are in effect for the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, with wind gusts reaching up to 40 mph. A change in weather is anticipated starting Wednesday, with showers and thunderstorms potentially bringing relief but also posing risks of gusty winds and lightning.

Clark County Faces Hazy Conditions Due to Dust and Wildfire Smoke

Clark County Faces Hazy Conditions Due to Dust and Wildfire Smoke

Clark County, Nevada, is experiencing hazy conditions caused by a combination of dust from scattered thunderstorms and smoke from the Epan Fire in Nye County. The county is currently under a seasonal ozone and wildfire smoke advisory, which is expected to remain in effect until the end of September. The air quality is anticipated to improve throughout the day, according to county officials. These conditions have contributed to a gloomy atmosphere, affecting residents and potentially impacting outdoor activities.

Montana Wildfires Worsen Air Quality as Smoke Forecasts Predict Continued Impact

Montana Wildfires Worsen Air Quality as Smoke Forecasts Predict Continued Impact

The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality alert due to smoke from ongoing wildfires in the region. Active fires in the Pioneer and Sapphire Mountains, including the Bobcat Lakes and Sand Creek Fires, are contributing to unhealthy air conditions in several counties. The Moose and Black Bear Fires are also affecting air quality, with smoke impacting communities like Helena. The forecast predicts that cooler air and potential precipitation could improve conditions later in the week, but current fire weather remains a concern.

Oregon Issues Air Quality Advisory Amid Wildfire Smoke

Oregon Issues Air Quality Advisory Amid Wildfire Smoke

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality, along with regional air protection agencies, has issued an air quality advisory due to smoke from multiple wildfires in Oregon and Washington. The advisory, effective as of August 6, 2026, covers numerous counties, including Baker, Crook, Deschutes, Hood River, Jackson, and others. The smoke is expected to persist until further notice, impacting air quality across the region. Residents are advised to take precautions, especially those with respiratory conditions or other health vulnerabilities.

New Mexico Health Officials Warn of Smoke Risks as Frijoles Fire Expands

New Mexico Health Officials Warn of Smoke Risks as Frijoles Fire Expands

New Mexico health officials have issued warnings about the health risks posed by smoke from the Frijoles Fire, which has expanded to over 3,000 acres. The fire, located in the Pecos Wilderness, is visible from several towns including Santa Fe and Española. The state has advised residents, particularly the elderly and those with respiratory issues, to use the '5-3-1' visibility rule to assess their risk and limit outdoor activities accordingly. The fire, one of several ignited by lightning, remains uncontained, with efforts underway to establish containment lines.

Air Quality Advisory Issued for Oregon Until Wednesday Noon

Air Quality Advisory Issued for Oregon Until Wednesday Noon

The Oregon Department of Environmental Quality has issued an Air Quality Advisory effective until noon PDT on Wednesday. This advisory is due to deteriorating air quality conditions, likely influenced by smoke and particulate matter. Residents are encouraged to check with local health or air agencies for restrictions on woodstove use, as exceptions may apply for those relying on wood for heating or with limited income. The advisory highlights the importance of minimizing outdoor activities in smoky conditions and using certified HEPA filters indoors to mitigate health risks. Vulnerable groups, including children and individuals with heart or lung conditions, are advised to stay indoors during high smoke levels. For more information, residents can visit the Oregon DEQ website at http://www.oregon.gov/DEQ.

Virginia Challenges EPA's Rollback of Emission Standards for Toxic Chemicals

Virginia Challenges EPA's Rollback of Emission Standards for Toxic Chemicals

Virginia, along with 13 other states, has filed a lawsuit against the Trump administration's efforts to repeal stringent emission standards for ethylene oxide (EtO), a chemical used in sterilizing medical equipment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had previously tightened these standards in 2024 after studies revealed EtO's heightened toxicity, linking it to severe health risks such as cancer. The Trump administration aims to revert to older, less strict regulations, arguing that the new rules are burdensome to the medical supply chain. Virginia's Attorney General, Jay Jones, emphasized the importance of maintaining these standards to protect public health, especially in areas like Richmond, where facilities have been identified as significant pollution sources.

Oregon County Fairs Continue Amidst Hazardous Wildfire Smoke Conditions

Oregon County Fairs Continue Amidst Hazardous Wildfire Smoke Conditions

Despite hazardous air quality due to pervasive wildfire smoke, county fairs across Oregon are proceeding as scheduled. The smoke, resulting from ongoing wildfires in Oregon and Washington, has led to some of the most hazardous air conditions globally. Fairgoers, including 4-H participants and their animals, are experiencing health challenges due to the smoke. Animals, particularly small ones, are struggling with respiratory issues, impacting their performance in competitions. The fairs, which are significant cultural and economic events, are continuing with precautions, such as wearing masks and taking breaks indoors to mitigate health risks.

Clean Air Clubs Mobilize to Protect Americans from Wildfire Smoke

Clean Air Clubs Mobilize to Protect Americans from Wildfire Smoke

Clean air clubs, initially formed to distribute PPE during the Covid pandemic, are now providing air purifiers and masks to communities affected by wildfire smoke. These mutual aid groups, such as the Mendo Clean Air Club, are helping residents in areas like Mendocino County, California, where smoke from nearby wildfires has led to hazardous air quality. The clubs operate lending libraries for air purifiers and distribute masks to help protect vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with respiratory conditions.

Evacuations Downgraded in Malden and Rosalia Amid Wells Road Fire

Evacuations Downgraded in Malden and Rosalia Amid Wells Road Fire

Evacuations in Malden and Rosalia have been downgraded as firefighters continue to battle the 2000-acre Wells Road Fire in Washington. The fire, which has prompted air quality alerts due to significant smoke, has affected multiple counties, including Spokane. Residents are advised to limit outdoor activities and seek cleaner air environments. The fire is part of a series of wildfires impacting the region, with authorities working to contain the blazes and provide assistance to affected communities.