Updated 1000 MDT Tuesday, August 5, 2014
Valid through Noon MDT Friday, August 8, 2014
Smoke Outlook
Most of Idaho has maintained Good levels
of air quality except for north Idaho, which is currently experiencing Moderate
conditions this morning due to the fires burning in Washington. Even with periods of Moderate, the 24hr AQI
was in the Good category except for parts of the Idaho Panhandle and Clearwater
Basin.
The mid-level low pressure system
located along the ID-NV border will progress slowly towards the northeast. This will keep southern Idaho under a
deformation zone which will continue to funnel monsoon moisture into southeast
and eastern Idaho this afternoon. There
is a shortwave passing slightly north of the Canadian-Idaho border. This system will continue to send small
pulses into the Idaho Panhandle. There
is a threat of thunderstorms in the extreme northern parts of the Idaho
Panhandle and southeast and eastern regions.
Any storms that do develop will be weak persistent cloud cover in the
southern portions will limit heating. Similar
weather can be expected through Friday with a general drying trend as westerly
flow returns over Idaho and decreases in shower activity each day.
Smoke impacts today will be similar to yesterday
and confined mostly to light smoke across the northern part of state, north of
the Salmon River. Primary sources will
continue to be fires burning in Oregon and Washington.
Smoke forecasts are dependent on predicted fire growth and
weather. If conditions change unexpectedly, impacts could occur.
When visibility starts to go below 5 miles, sensitive groups should minimize
outdoor activities. Everyone else should minimize prolonged or physical
activity outdoors. Refer to the Smoke and Health Tab on the Idaho Smoke Information Blog for additional
health information.
Your eyes are your best tools to determine if it’s safe to be
outside. Even if you smell smoke, the air quality may still be
good.
|
AQI Category
|
Visibility (miles)
|
|
Good
|
11+
|
|
Moderate
|
6-10
|
|
Unhealthy for
Sensitive Groups
|
3-5
|
|
Unhealthy
|
1½
-2¾
|
|
Very
Unhealthy
|
1-1¼
|
|
Hazardous
|
Less
than 1
|
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