WNKY NEWS 40 WEATHER REPORTS: Hazy Horizons
Smoke From Western Wildfires
Do you remember the hazy skies last summer? That’s because massive wildfires were burning across the Western U.S. and Canada.
These regions are dealing with high heat, dry conditions, and strong winds, which contribute to the rapid spread of the flames.
For example, when winds blow over the Rockies, the air travels down and mixes with the warmer air downhill. These winds can be quite gusty and poses a greater fire risk.
Wildfires also billow large areas of smoke which reduces visibility and threatens air quality. With the help of strong upper level winds, pollutants from the smoke can be carried across the whole country.
The current weather pattern could steer some light haze into our skies. With hazy skies on the horizon, the air quality may be challenged.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) is on a moderate scale, which means sensitive groups with pre-existing heart or lung conditions may be susceptible to respiratory symptoms.
Air Quality is monitored daily by the Environmental Protection Agency(EPA), for more info you can visit Airnow.gov.
Although hazy skies could challenge health, they can provide vibrant sunrises and sunsets.
