Smoke still on tap for Tuesday

 Another smoky day is on tap for much of the state, and an Air Quality Health Advisory is in effect for several counties. 

What's new today? 

Eagle County and Pitkin County are now included in the advisory area. Folks in Aspen, Woody Creek, Basalt, Eagle, and Vail woke up to hazy skies and smoke. 

Hazy skies at the Aspen/ Pitkin County Airport Tuesday morning. Image courtesy: FAA Weathercams.

What's staying the same today? 

The rest of the advisory area remains the same. Moderate to heavy smoke is still possible throughout the advisory area through at least Wednesday morning.

What's coming next? 

There is a chance of rain in Colorado's future. Thunderstorms are possible in western and central Colorado, starting Tuesday evening. Rain from these storms could slow fire growth, helping fire crews contain the blazes.

However, we aren't completely in the clear just yet. Lightning from these storms could spark new fires. CDPHE meteorologists are tracking these storms and watching for new fire starts. 

For today, smoke will linger across much of the state. Stay tuned for an update by Wednesday morning.

GOES-19 visible satellite image shows smoke lingering over much of Colorado. Image courtesy: RAMMB CIRA Slider.

If smoke is heavy in your area, take steps to reduce your exposure and protect your health. For real-time air quality data near you, visit AirNow's Fire and Smoke website. 

Fires and smoke continue this week with additional factors to consider

The wildfires burning in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona (among others) were again active over the weekend, and will remain a concern this week. Air Quality Health Advisories for Wildfire Smoke will continue. While smoke production, transport, and its impact on public health is our main focus, it is not the only factor that we will contend with this week.

Last week was filled with Red Flag warnings and persistent high winds that allowed fires to grow to the size we now see. This week will have different elements to consider. Over the next several days we will see an increase in moisture in our region, and also an increase in temperature.

Weather Story graphic from the National Weather Service in Grand Junction, CO indicating potential for influence from lightning, gusty winds, and high temperatures on Monday, July 6th, 2026.

More moisture in the atmosphere means that chances for storms will increase through midweek in many locations. This sounds encouraging, however this may not deliver the overall relief that we would like to see. On Monday storms are favored in southwestern and central Colorado, possibly having an influence on he Ferris Fire, or perhaps the Gold Mountain Fire. These will likely remain isolated and scattered, with limited chance for beneficial wetting rain. 

Tuesday and Wednesday see similar activity in the western half of the state, with better likelihood for more widespread and vigorous storms over the eastern Rockies and along the Front Range. This may influence the Aspen Acres Fire.

We sincerely hope that well-placed rainfall will help in fire suppression efforts and reduce fire intensity. However we must remain aware that thunderstorms also produce lightning and gusty winds- factors that hold concern for new starts, invigoration of fire activity, and unpredictable movement of smoke. Please keep this in mind; hope for rain but remain weary of potential negative outcomes.

Another compounding factor for both fire behavior and public health is the heat. A ridge of high pressure will be over the region, meaning that many locations will see high temps in the 90s for most of the week. Health impacts due to heat stress alone can be worrisome, and when combined with poor air quality, concerns are heightened. Please stay hydrated and cool to the best of your ability. Remain indoors and reduce exertion if possible, and be prepared to take action to counter negative health effects from these conditions, especially if you are predisposed to these impacts.

We will continue with updates and Advisories, aiming to help inform you of the most likely areas impacted by smoke, but we urge folks in all areas of Colorado to stay informed and stay safe from all potential health impacts.

Smoke impacts will continue on Sunday and Monday for many areas of Colorado

Wildfires in Colorado and neighboring states will continue to produce significant amounts of smoke, degrading air quality conditions in large areas of central, southern, and southwestern Colorado on Sunday. Weather conditions will remain hot and dry over most of the state, with scattered storms possible for a few areas. This means that fires will likely have another active day on Sunday, with smoke impacts continuing into the workweek.

In early frames of visible satellite imagery, smoke can be seen covering much of our state. Many mountain valleys saw increased impacts on Sunday morning due to smoke settling overnight. Areas further from the fires' locations have seen more widely varying concentrations as daytime mixing of the atmosphere and transport winds interact.

Satellite image of Colorado showing smoke from several wildfires blanketing large areas of central, southern, and southwestern Colorado. Image courtesy CIRA/CSU. 

The Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke has been extended through Monday morning. Clearly the areas in close proximity to fires will continue to see the heaviest smoke, yet we also want folks throughout the Advisory area to remain aware that impacts will remain possible at different times each day, with potential for rapidly changing conditions.

We encourage everyone to remain aware of particulate concentrations in your area, finding times to engage in daily activity during periods when smoke levels may be less harmful, but being ready to reduce activity, move indoors, and take actions to reduce exposure and health impacts when necessary.

A mixed bag for Colorado air quality for the 4th of July holiday

Wildfire smoke will remain a health concern, unfortunately, for many parts of Colorado during the 4th of July holiday. However, for some locations the air quality is improving. Let's break it down.

We will start with the areas of concern. The newest Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke stretches across southern parts of Colorado from the Four Corners region in southwest Colorado, eastward to the Pueblo area. This is due to continued smoke from the Babylon fire, the Ferris fire, the Gold Mountain fire, the Aspen Acres fire and the Willow fire. All of these fires are capable of producing massive amounts of smoke and could impact areas downwind (to the east of the fires). Outdoor plans for the 4th should take this into account in Montrose, Gunnison, Silverton, Lake City, Saguache, Alamosa, Salida, Pueblo, and surrounding areas. Also keep in mind that afternoon thunderstorms with gusty and erratic winds could push smoke in unpredictable directions Saturday afternoon and evening, particuarly near the Aspen Acres fire in Custer and Pueblo counties.

There is some good news to report. Areas further to the north which were blanketed with smoke during much of the workweek are seeing some relief. Expect an improvement in air quality today in Grand Junction, Aspen, and Colorado Springs. But please be mindful that the recent prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can have lingering health impacts. 

Hazy skies Saturday morning looking west from Gunnison-Crested Butte Regional Airport, courtesy of FAA weathercams.

Another smoky day on Friday, but gradual changes heading into the holiday weekend

The National Weather Service has again issued Red Flag Warnings for all of the big fires in Colorado on Friday. This means that we are again expecting active fire conditions and very heavy smoke production. The Air Quality Health Advisory has been extended through at least 9am on Saturday. However, there have been some changes to the advisory footprint.  Northern counties (Moffat, Rio Blanco, Routt, and Jackson) have been removed as air quality has improved and any additional smoke later today should be rather light. So looking better to spend some time outdoors today in Steamboat Springs, Meeker, and up around Dinosaur National Monument.

Conversely, a few counties have been added to the advisory today. These include Crowley and Otero counties on the eastern plains of southeastern Colorado which could see some downwind impacts today from the Aspen Acres fire. So please be prepared for a possible rapid increase in smoke around Ordway and La Junta Friday afternoon and evening. And it is also likely to remain a smoky day in other parts of southern and western Colorado, including Montrose, Gunnison, Salida, and Pueblo. Please take care to protect your health and please check CDPHE's CDPHE Wildfire Smoke Preparedness Program webpage for tips on how to maintain the air quality in your house, even if you don't have central air conditioning.

The reason we made these slight changes to the advisory is that the transport winds over the fires are starting to shift from southwesterly, to a bit more westerly. This accounts for less smoke in northern Colorado today, and likely some gradual improvement for central parts of the state as well.  The Intersate 70 corridor between Grand Junction and Denver has been socked in by smoke for several days now, including this morning.  However with the wind shift at the fires, we are anticipating less smoke to hit these areas Friday afternoon and evening. So it appears there could be some light at the end of that smoky tunnel in places like Glenwood Springs, Edwards, Vail, Breckenridge, and Idaho Springs. However, please continue to take it slow today. Breathing heavy smoke for an extended period of time can have lingering health impacts. So even after the smoke clears out, you may want to wait 12-24 hours to return to heavy exertion activities/exercise. This is especially true if you have heart or lung disease, including asthma.

Smoke Impacts to continue on Thursday and Friday

Active fires in Colorado, Utah, and Arizona will continue to produce smoke that will impact air quality in the Centennial State on Thursday and Friday.

The Ferris Fire, Gold Mountain Fire, and the Willow Fire are the biggest factors in smoke production on the Western Slope of Colorado, and with the addition of smoke from fires in other states, significant degradation of air quality will continue in many areas.

The Aspen Acres Fire in Pueblo County also remains active and is contributing to poor air quality in areas along the Front Range and the neighboring plains. Air Quality Health Advisories for Wildfire Smoke remain in effect for much of the state. The northern Front Range remains under an Action Day for Multiple Pollutants due to concerns from ozone and particulate (smoke) pollution.

Map showing Air Quality Advisories (in gray) and Action Days (in purple) in effect throughout Colorado on Thursday and Friday. Map from colorado.gov/airquality

Hot and dry weather remains in the forecast over the next several days, so these alerts are likely to continue as we head into the weekend. Shifts in the weather pattern may alter the areas that are affected by smoke, so stay tuned to updates as weather, fire behavior, and smoke production and transport may change over the next few days.

Reducing heavy exertion, particularly when outdoors and for folks who have conditions that make them sensitive to air pollution, can help to reduce health impacts from exposure to poor air quality. 

Information on all air quality alerts and ways to protect your health can be found on the CPDHE website using the links on this page. Updates will continue to be provided here as well in our efforts to keep you informed.

Wednesday Smoke Outlook

Another smoky day is on the horizon for many Coloradans. Several wildfires continue to burn in Colorado and neighboring states, and smoke is expected to stick around through at least Thursday morning.

GOES-19 visible satellite image shows a large plume of smoke over Colorado. Smoke is expected to continue for many counties on Wednesday. Image courtesy of RAMMB CIRA Slider.

Not much has changed on the Western Slope since Tuesday morning. The Ferris Fire, Gold Mountain Fire, and Snyder Mesa Fire continue to burn, and moderate to heavy smoke is possible through at least Thursday morning. The Air Quality Health Advisory remains in effect until 9 am Thursday. 

In eastern Colorado, the Aspen Acres Fire just southwest of Pueblo is still producing heavy smoke. Particulate Matter concentrations are especially high in Pueblo, Canon City, Cripple Creek, and Woodland Park. Moderate to heavy smoke is possible through at least Thursday morning. 

 However, there are some changes to note. Smoke is not expected to reach as far north today, so the Air Quality Health Advisory has been updated to remove Washington, Lincoln, and Morgan Counties. 

In the Northern Front Range, an Action Day for Multiple Pollutants is in effect until at least 4 pm today. As of Wednesday morning, the heaviest smoke is in the foothills, particularly in Jefferson and Douglas Counties. This includes Evergreen, Aspen Park, and Roxborough Park. In the Front Range, Particulate Matter and Ozone could both reach the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category today.

Red Flag Warnings are in effect today for southeastern Utah and western Colorado. Dry, windy weather is on tap for Wednesday, so existing fires may grow, and new fires may spark. For real-time air quality information near you, visit the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.

We are monitoring the smoke and will provide updates as the situation develops. 

Smoky Tuesday in Colorado

Many Coloradans are waking up to hazy, smoky conditions. Multiple advisories are in effect. Large fires are burning in Colorado and neighboring states. Here, we'll break down the smoke situation, starting west and working our way east.

A smoky Tuesday in Colorado- AirNow's Fire and Smoke map shows moderate to heavy smoke across the state.

Several large fires are impacting air quality on the Western Slope. The Ferris Fire and Gold Mountain Fire are burning in western Colorado. The Babylon Fire is burning in Utah. Smoke from these fires has been lingering in the western half of the state since last week.

What's changing today? Counties in northwest Colorado are likely to see smoke this afternoon. The upper-level winds, known as transport winds, will shift, allowing smoke to push further north on Tuesday. We updated the Air Quality Health Advisory this morning to reflect this shift. It now includes counties in northwest Colorado.

Smoke has also pushed over the mountains and into the Northern Front Range Region. This area includes the Denver Metro, Boulder, Fort Collins, and Greeley. Moderate to heavy smoke is possible on Tuesday in this region. While this blog is focused on smoke, high Ozone is also possible in the Northern Front Range. Today is a good day to stay inside and take it easy. An Action Day for Multiple Pollutants is in effect until at least 4 p.m. Tuesday.

Finally, smoke from the Aspen Acres Fire is affecting air quality in parts of the eastern plains. This fire grew rapidly on Monday, and its plume of smoke stretched northeast, affecting parts of the east-central plains. Smoke in Pueblo was particularly heavy. The Sheep Head Fire sparked on Monday afternoon, adding to the smoke in this area. Folks in northeast Colorado and the east-central plains can expect moderate to heavy smoke to continue through at least Wednesday morning.

When will we have an update?

• The Air Quality Health Advisories are in effect until at least 9 am Wednesday. We are monitoring the situation and will update the advisory by Wednesday morning.
• In the Northern Front Range, the Action Day for Multiple Pollutants is in effect until at least 4 pm Tuesday. We will update or change this advisory on Tuesday afternoon.
• If any new fires spark, we will update the smoke blog or issue additional advisories if necessary.

What can you do if smoke is heavy in your area?

Visit AirNow's Fire and Smoke map for real-time air quality information near you

Limit outdoor activity

Stay indoors and create a clean air room, if possible

Fire-specific resources

A Red Flag Warning is in effect for much of western and southern Colorado on Tuesday. This means that existing fires may grow, and new fires could spark. This blog will focus on public health impacts from smoke. However, the following resources are available to stay informed as the situation evolves.

• InciWeb

• WatchDuty

• Wildfire Information Resource Center

Heavy smoke intrusion between Denver and Colorado Springs

A large plume of smoke has descended on parts of the Front Range region late Monday afternoon.  Be prepared for a sudden drop in visibility driving Interstate 25 between Denver and Colorado Springs. Air quality has also reached unhealthy levels in locations such as Castle Rock and Larkspur. Residents along this busy stretch of the Interstate 25 corridor should monitor smoke levels in your area as the smoke plume could move in unpredictable directions and air quality could rapidly deteriorate.

A heavy smoke plume between Denver and Colorado Springs (slider.cira.colostate.edu)

CDOT web camera just north of Castle Rock (cotrip.org)

Heavy smoke from Aspen Acres Fire

As of Monday afternoon, the Aspen Acres Fire is producing a plume of heavy smoke. This smoke is pushing northeast and extends as far as Kit Carson County. However, the heaviest smoke is in Pueblo, where particulate matter concentrations are pushing into the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category.

An Air Quality Health Advisory is in effect until 9 am Tuesday morning. Moderate to heavy smoke is possible anywhere downwind of this fire. If there is smoke in your area, it's a good idea to limit outdoor activities and stay indoors, if possible.

For real-time air quality near you, check AirNow's Fire and Smoke Map.

The smoke plume from the Aspen Acres Fire stretches to Kit Carson County. 

Beyond Smoke

The Division of Fire Prevention and Control maintains the Wildfire Information Resource Center with more resources to help you stay safe this wildfire season. This includes the Wildland Fire Status Dashboard and Emergency Alert systems for each county.

Occasional smoke impacts set to continue on Monday

Looking across Colorado this morning on EPA's Fire and Smoke Map, there are large differences in air quality from place to place.

Air quality conditions vary widely across Colorado Monday morning (fire.airnow.gov)

Moderate to heavy smoke impacts are currently being felt in communities such as Edwards, Aspen, Edwards, and Silverthorne.  The heaviest smoke is being reported in the valleys of Grand County, where Highway 40 is a smoky drive from Winter Park northward through Fraser and Granby to the shores of Grand Lake.

In contrast, smoke has cleared out for the moment in Grand Junction, Montrose, Gunnison, Buena Vista, and also for much of the Denver metro area. The advice for these areas is to open up your windows and let the clean air in while you have it. Because things could go downhill again later today.

Early morning satellite imagery reveals three very large fires in southwestern Colorado and southeastern Utah.

GOES-19 Band 7 satellite imagery shows "hot spots" at large wildfires in the Four Corners region (slider.cira.colostate.edu)

These fires will likely intensify again Monday afternoon and evening. Smoke impacts are obviously expected in areas very close to the fires, but smoke will be transported downwind to the northeast and east-northeast. So although the air quality might be fine now in your neighborhood, be prepared for sudden changes Monday afternoon and evening. Air quality advisories and alerts reflect the large area that could be impacted by smoke today. For those that have been tracking our advisories over the weekend, note that some areas to the north (Rio Blanco, Moffat, Routt and Jackson counties) have been removed from the advisory as fire activity upwind from those areas has decreased somewhat. But do realize that the advisory footprint could expand again later today depending on fire activity and other factors that are unknown at this point.

Large plumes of smoke moving northeastward across Colorado

Particle pollution is currently spiking in places like Grand Junction, Paonia, Aspen and Eagle as massive plumes of wildfire smoke push rapidly northeastward across Colorado. Advisories and alerts remain in effect statewide.

GOES-19 satellite imagery reveals large smoke plumes being transported from wildfires in southwestern Colorado and southeastern Utah (slider.cira.colostate.edu)

The Denver metro area could very well be next as smoke may arrive by the early evening hours. Now is the time to consider finishing up outdoor activities and heading inside with the windows shut. Keep in mind that ozone levels are also quite high across the northern Front Range region which could amplify the health impacts, especially those that suffer from heart and/or lung disease, older adults, and children.

Please do keep in mind that we may repeat this entire cycle again on Monday, so remain alert to rapidly changing air quality conditions in your area.  There are several things you can do to protect your health against smoke.  Please visit the CDPHE Wildfire Smoke Preparedness Program webpage which includes a section with guidance on maintaining cleaner indoor air during smoke events, with practical tips for homes and other buildings (including those without air conditioning or mechanical HVAC systems).

Heavy smoke again in the forecast Sunday

FAA WeatherCam at Copper Mountain shows a layer of heavy smoke looking northward towards Silverthorne in Summit County

Another day of active wildfire conditions will likely produce enormous amounts of smoke and pose a public health risk for large parts of Colorado. Although there are many wildfires across the region, the main culprits for the smoke in Colorado are the Ferris in southwestern Colorado near the Dolores/Montezuma county line, the Snyder along the Colorado/Utah state line in western Mesa County, and the Babylon in southeastern Utah. All three of these wildfires are located in areas where Red Flag Warnings are in effect on Sunday. This means that hot, dry and windy weather will likely increase fire activity and smoke production, especially Sunday afternoon and evening.

Heavy smoke can found in many areas Sunday morning which is lingering from yesterday's smoke intrusion. The mountains and valleys of central Colorado are seeing the worst of the air quality Sunday morning, including in and around Aspen, Edwards, Silverthorne, Kremmling and Granby, along with locations on the Peak to Peak Highway from Blackhawk northward to Estes Park. Air quality conditions in these areas should gradually improve this morning as the atmosphere begins to heat up, but be prepared for the possibility for another round of smoke later today.

Areas near the fires, but also well downwind of the fires, will be impacted by smoke on Sunday. The winds over the fires will once again transport the smoke from southwest to northeast at high speeds and over long distances. The Air Quality Health Advisories that were issued yesterday have been expanded slightly to include a few additional counties to the east and south. Communities stretching from Telluride northward to Grand Junction and Steamboat Springs, and eastward from the central mountains to the western foothills of the northern Front Range should be prepared for periods of moderate to heavy smoke through at least Monday morning.

There are several ways that you can protect your health from wildfire smoke. We will continue to provide updates here on the blog as conditions evolve.

EPA's Fire and Smoke Map shows heavy smoke Sunday morning across parts of central and western Colorado

Air Quality Health Advisories have been issued for large portions of western and northern Colorado

Wildfires have intensified throughout eastern Utah and western Colorado. The result is heavy smoke in areas downwind of the fires. Shutting windows when smoke is present in your area, or at minimum before you head off to bed tonight, is advised in Telluride, Montrose, Delta, Grand Junction, Gunnison, Aspen, Eagle, Glenwood Springs, Meeker, Craig, Steamboat Springs, Walden, Granby, or anywhere near these communities. Stay informed on the details of the two active advisories and your local air quality. 

GOES-19 satellite imagery shows "hot spots" from large wildfires in southwestern Colorado and southeastern Utah (slider.cira.colostate.edu)

Air Quality Health Advisories for Wildfire Smoke for several counties in western and northern Colorado (colorado.gov/airquality)

New large fires near the Colorado/Utah state line

A number of new fires have recently developed near the Colorado/Utah state line with the largest being the Jones fire.  The Jones fire is producing quite a bit of smoke with the plume moving from southwest to northeast. This puts the plume right over parts of the Grand Valley and easily visible in Grand Junction.

Webcam at Grand Junction Regional Airport looking northwest. Image courtesy of weathercams.faa.gov

With the atmosphere very unstable and producing a good amount of "lift", most of the smoke is remaining well above the earth's surface. However, some smoke can be expected to mix down and periods of moderate to possibly heavy smoke will be possible downwind of the Jones fire.  This will include the Grand Valley, especially western parts.  Additionally, areas further north and northeast could also receive this periodic smoke including Meeker, Craig, and Steamboat Springs. CDPHE is monitoring these areas for a potential advisory and will post it here if needed.

Clear skies for Colorado

Smoke has finally cleared out of Colorado, and there are no Air Quality Alerts in effect.

The Dry Creek Fire near Rifle is not producing notable smoke. Air quality in Rifle is expected to remain in the Good category on Friday. 

Large fires are still burning in Utah. However, smoke from these fires is not expected to reach Colorado. On Friday and Saturday, upper-level winds are expected to be out of the southwest. That upper-level wind direction will keep the smoke to our west. Good to moderate air quality is expected through at least Saturday.

A Red Flag Warning is still in effect for much of western Colorado and Utah. This could change the situation if new fires spark. We are watching for new fires and will update the blog if the situation changes.

Air Quality Health Advisory for wildfire smoke continues

The Advisory for wildfire smoke will continue Thursday into Friday with changes to its footprint. The shifting regional weather pattern along with showers and thunderstorms have altered the transport of smoke coming into Colorado. This will continue to affect air quality conditions during the current forecast period. This may provide temporary reprieve for some locations within the forecast area, but all areas covered by the Advisory should continue to prepare for rapid increases in smoke concentrations.

Transport winds pushed smoke further north on Wednesday night, and smoke is now affecting areas of northwestern Colorado that were not heavily impacted before. As the weather pattern continues to shift on Thursday, smoke may move into areas in the central mountains. While the smoke already in Colorado moves about, more smoke will be produced and head our way. Red Flag conditions remain in effect for much of the desert southwest, and active fire behavior is remains possible today, producing a new batch of smoke headed towards western Colorado. All of this creates a smoky game of whack-a-mole that we all get to play. Please note the changes in which Colorado counties are covered by the Advisory due to these ever-evolving factors.

Webcam image from Walton Peak, south of Steamboat Springs, CO shows a mix of clouds and smoke on Thursday, June 25, 2026. Image courtesy of FAA WeatherCams.

The outlook has remained highly variable this week. We work hard to consider all the complexity that is involved, and keep you informed of our expectations. This means that some locations will see greater impacts than others, and many at different times. We strive to provide useful and timely information, always prioritizing protection of public health.

Please remain aware of changing conditions in your area and take the most appropriate precautions to reduce health impacts from the smoke, and we will keep you informed of our expectations. 

Local wildfires are also a threat to air quality on Wednesday

Although the vast majority of the smoke currently in Colorado is being transported from other states, in-state wildfires may also contribute to the poor air quality over the next 24 hours. One of those wildfires is the Dry Creek fire which is located in Garfield County about 5 miles to the southeast of Rifle. Smoke will no doubt be visible along that stretch of Interstate 70. Additionally, this smoke could further worsen air quality conditions within Garfield County. The heaviest smoke impacts from the Dry Creek fire are likely to be overnight Wednesday night and into Thursday morning in the Rifle area, especially on the southern side of the Colorado River near Garfield County Regional Airport. Residents in this area should take action to protect their health, but keep in mind that the entire county and greater region continues to be impacted from the fires in Utah and Nevada (see our blog post below from earlier today).

It should also be noted that a Red Flag Warning is in effect for many parts of central Colorado.  So additional fire starts are not out of the question on Wednesday.

Location of the Dry Creek Fire in Garfield County

Smoke blankets western Colorado Wednesday morning

An Air Quality Health Advisory will remain in effect for large portions of western Colorado on Wednesday. The advisory coverage area will change slightly from yesterday with a little push northward. A few areas to the south, such as Pagosa Springs, will be removed from the advisory. Meanwhile further to the north, places like Aspen, Eagle, and Meeker have been added. Please click the link above for a detailed description of the entire advisory area.  

Fine particulate levels, also known as PM2.5, are highly elevated this morning for many areas in western Colorado. Some of the heaviest smoke can be found in valley locations, including Grand Junction, Delta and Montrose. 

EPA's Fire and Smoke Map shows heavy smoke (red dots) in the valleys of western Colorado

Heavy smoke at Grand Junction Regional Airport. Webcam image courtesy of weathercams.faa.gov

Smoke levels are going to vary widely across western Colorado today and they could rapidly change with very little warning. The source of the smoke, wildfires burning in Utah and Nevada, could see chaotic weather conditions today that include strong thunderstorms. So it is difficult to anticipate exactly how the fires are going to behave and what type of smoke production to expect. Closer to home, there could also be some shower and thunderstorm development over the advisory area. This could push smoke in nearly any direction. 

So the big takeaway is -- expect the unexpected today in western Colorado and be prepared to protect your health from wildfire smoke. 

Smoke is moving into Colorado

Smoke from several out-of-state fires is moving into Colorado. The heaviest smoke is expected in western Colorado. However, hazy skies and light smoke are possible throughout the state.

Air Quality Health Advisory

An Air Quality Health Advisory is in effect for a large section of the state. Counties in western, southwestern, and southern Colorado are all included. Smoke is moving in from fires to our west, which will impact air quality on Tuesday and Wednesday.

Even if the smoke is not heavy right now, conditions could change rapidly. To stay aware of the latest air quality conditions near you, check the AirNowFire and Smoke Map. Take steps to protect your health if the smoke becomes heavy in your area.  

Where is it all coming from? In Utah, the Cottonwood Fire, Hastings Fire, and Iron Fire have grown over the past 24 hours and are producing heavy smoke. The Kane Springs Fire and Grapevine Fire are burning in Nevada, contributing to the plume.

Heavy smoke is visible on satellite imagery. Image Courtesy of RAMMB CIRA Slider.

Beyond the advisory area

In the satellite image above, the plume of smoke extends into eastern Colorado. However, we did not include this area in the Advisory. We expect most of this smoke to remain in the upper atmosphere and not mix down to the surface. If you're located outside of the advisory area, you may notice hazy skies and light smoke, but no major public health impacts are expected at this time.

CDPHE is monitoring the situation and will adjust the advisory area if conditions change.

Smoke will continue to be transported into Colorado, impacts expected to remain transient

The fires burning in Utah and Nevada that were described in yesterday's post continue to be the focus of fire and smoke activity, in relation to air quality in Colorado. All three fires have remained active on Sunday, however intensity has not been quite as vigorous as was seen on Saturday. Therefore, our message here still remains relatively unchanged.

Modelling of weather conditions, fire behavior, and smoke impacts generally agree on broad features, and combined with observed trends and impacts leads to an unsurprising conclusion: that smoke will continue to affect Colorado at times over the coming days. All things considered, expected impacts still do not rise to a level that supports issuance of advisories, nor the expectation that one may be needed in the short term.

However we do still expect to see hazy skies and varying levels of light-to-moderate smoke moving into Colorado, and making its way to various parts of the state. Impacts will be most likely for locations on the Western Slope, however locations as far as the Front Range have also seen some haze and a small uptick in particulate concentrations.

In all, this pattern is likely to continue into the coming week, so folks should continue to remain aware of local conditions, and be prepared to take action to minimize impacts as needed and appropriate.

We will continue to watch as things unfold, and will pass along updates to help you stay informed.

Transport of smoke into Colorado possible Saturday and Sunday

Fire activity in Colorado remains minimal for the time being. This is good news that we hope will continue. However, fires in other states are creating smoke that is headed our way.

The primary fires that may influence air quality in Colorado are the Iron Fire in central Utah, and the Kane Springs Fire and Grapevine Fire in southern Nevada. Each of these fires has shown vigorous activity and smoke production over recent days, and winds look to bring smoke from these incidents into our state throughout the weekend.

Some smoke from the Iron Fire has begun to clip the far northwestern corner of Colorado on Saturday afternoon. This transport may continue to increase during the evening and overnight hours on Saturday. Smoke from the Kane Springs and Grapevine fires has not yet become a factor for Colorado, yet. Thus far most of the smoke within our borders has remained aloft, with very minimal surface impacts. A wind shift that will begin late Saturday evening may push smoke to the south, with light to moderate smoke becoming possible in northwestern Colorado Saturday night and Sunday morning. Additionally, smoke from all fires may be transported more directly west-to-east on Sunday, and may allow hazy skies and light to moderate areas of smoke to develop throughout the day on Sunday.

Satellite image (courtesy of CIRA/CSU/NOAA) shows portions of Nevada, Utah, and Colorado, with red circles indicating the location of fires that are producing smoke that may be transported into Colorado on Saturday and Sunday. Columns of smoke can be seen emanating from these fires and moving to the east of the fires' locations in Nevada and Utah.

Indications so far show that surface concentrations are likely only to reach Moderate on the AQI scale, so significant public health impacts are not expected at this time. The primary areas that are expected to see smoke include far northwestern Colorado (Moffat and Rio Blanco Counties), west-central Colorado (Mesa, Montrose, and San Miguel Counties), and the 4 Corners area (Montezuma and La Plata Counties); all at different times and concentrations as smoke plumes move through the region. However light and transient areas of smoke remain possible over much of the far western Colorado this weekend.

Once again, we do not expect great impacts to public health, yet we always seek to keep you informed of our expectations so that you can plan accordingly, and take measures to protect your health as appropriate.

If conditions or expectations change, updates will be posted here as well.

New fire in northern Mesa County

 The South Shale fire has intensified Monday afternoon and is producing a large amount of smoke. The fire is fortunately in a remote area about 14 miles to the north-northeast of Grand Junction, so public health impacts are expected to be minimal for the time being. However, smoke will be visible around the area. There is also the possibility of some brief periods of moderate to heavy smoke downwind of the area through this evening. That could impact areas along and near Interstate 70 east of Grand Junction, including Palisade, Cameo and Akin.

Location of the South Shale wildfire in Mesa County. Map courtesy of app.watchduty.org

Plenty of uncertainty this week

 Wildfires are currently increasing across the western United States. Although we are not currently seeing any big fires in Colorado, other states have not been as fortunate. The South Fork wildfire in western Nebraska has been well documented here in previous blog entries. There is some good news as the South Fork fire has diminished in intensity in recent days with an increase in the amount of fire containment. However, dry and windy conditions return to the Nebraska panhandle today which could intensify fire activity and produce an increase in smoke. If that occurs, some smoke could push into the northeastern corner of Colorado Monday night.  Of course that is entirely dependent on if fire activity increases Monday afternoon. Stay tuned.

Meanwhile, we must also keep our eyes well to the northwest of Colorado where some large wildfires are burning in southern Washington.  The two wildfires of most concern at the moment are the Tule fire and the Juniper Dunes fire. With a Red Flag Warning in effect for both of these fires on Tuesday, rapid intensification will be possible. If this does occur, the upper level winds over these fires could act as a conveyor belt to transport smoke in the direction of Colorado. Hazy skies will be possible as early as Tuesday afternoon across northwestern Colorado. However, a more significant smoke intrusion might be possible on Wednesday across the northern half of the state. 

Satellite image of the Tule and Juniper Dunes fires in southern Washington, courtesy of CIRA

Light to moderate areas of smoke possible on Sunday in the NE Colorado, northern Front Range

Shifting air masses have brought cooler temperatures and improved conditions for many fires in Colorado and neighboring regions. Moderated fire behavior has been observed over recent days, supported by favorable conditions. However, the surge of cooler air on Sunday may also draw smoke into Colorado from the surrounding region.

There are some indications that smoke may move into northeast Colorado as early as Saturday evening. There is then a possibility that further transport may allow light to moderate amounts of smoke to reach portions of the northern Front Range, from the Denver Metro area northward. Impacts from this are expected to be most significant early on Sunday morning, decreasing by Sunday afternoon.  Smoke is expected to be periodic and transient, and is not expected to have significant public health impacts.

Due to this potential, folks who are sensitive to particle pollution (smoke) may consider taking it easy if haze or smoke is present in your area. Recommendations for ways to avoid or reduce health impacts can be found through the Health Information tab above. 

Potential smoke impacts on Thursday from the South Fork fire in Nebraska

 We continue to watch several fires burning within Colorado borders, and will continue with updates on expectations arising from those incidents. However it is a large fire in northwestern Nebraska that has gained attention on Wednesday.

The South Fork fire is located to the Nebraska panhandle, north of Scotts Bluff, NE, just east of the Wyoming State line. The fire is currently reported at approximately 9,000 acres, but is showing active behavior and will likely gain in size throughout the day on Wednesday.

Smoke is expected to move to the east of the fire throughout the day on Wednesday. However a shift in wind direction taking place on Thursday looks to transport smoke into Colorado beginning Thursday afternoon and evening. The greatest impacts from smoke are most likely in northeastern portions of Colorado, potentially extending south and west overnight Thursday and into Friday. 

Weather and fire behavior/smoke models have revealed disagreement with the timing and organization of winds, and uncertainty remains in exactly how much smoke will arrive in Colorado, when, and how far into our state it will travel. The two images below show the same time (6 UTC, 12 am MDT, midnight Thursday night), with forecasts from different runs from the same model. This shows the significant variation in impacts from smoke that comes from one model run to the next, highlighting the uncertainty in expected outcome.

Images showing differing impacts from different model runs, due to smoke in northeastern Colorado at midnight Thursday night. Images courtesy of HRRR-Smoke model.

We will continue to monitor the fire and smoke as this situation develops, and will provide updates on expectations. However, folks in Logan, Sedgwick, and Phillips Counties (and surrounding areas) should consider taking precautions to avoid smoke exposure, including limiting outdoor activity Thursday evening, and into Friday morning.

Additional info about avoiding smoke exposure and potential health impacts can be found via the Health Information tab at the top of this page.

Several fires currently burning in Colorado, limited air quality impacts expected on Tuesday evening

Several fires are currently burning in Colorado, as of Tuesday evening. Currently significant impacts on air quality remain pretty limited.

The two most notable fires are the Bee Hive Fire in northwest Montrose County and the Paradise Creek Fire in eastern Garfield County, just west of Glenwood Springs.

The Bee Hive Fire was mapped at 180 acres on Tuesday. The fire was observed to be active at times throughout the day, however webcam imagery shows that smoke remains mainly diffuse in this area, with dense smoke lofting away from the surface in areas closest to the fire. Additionally, the smoke from this fire remains in rural portions of Montrose County. Smoke may be present in areas near the fire northeast of Paradox, along Roc Creek and the Dolores River in Bee Hive Canyon.

Webcam from 360Overwatch shows diffuse smoke and a faint plume rising from the Bee Hive Fire.

The Paradise Creek Fire is located along I-70 in Garfield County, just west of Glenwood Springs. This fire is much smaller in size, around 8-10 acres, and is creating patchy areas of intermittent smoke, as observed on CDOT Cameras. Due to fire activity and responding resources, I-70 has been closed near this fire. Smoke remains moderate, and highly localized in the immediate vicinity of the fire. Significant and widespread public health impacts are not currently expected.

 CDOT webcam image of I-70 with traffic congestion due to closure near the Paradise Creek fire.

Several smaller fires are also known in other counties throughout Colorado, yet are reported at sizes smaller than 20 acres, and have very limited information. Available information can be found through WatchDuty. 

As of Tuesday evening, no Advisories have been issued for these incidents. However CDPHE meteorologists are monitoring conditions and will issue Air Quality Health Advisories if they become warranted.

As always, we recommend that if smoke is affecting you or is noticeable in your area, consider taking precautions to protect your health.

Bee Hive wildfire

 The Bee Hive wildfire is located in Montrose County to the north-northeast of Bedrock and Paradox.  With high winds and dry conditions it has grown rapidly Monday afternoon to approximately 500 acres at 6pm MDT.  Fortunately for air quality, the smoke is lofting well and the fire is in a rather remote area.  So major public health impacts are not anticipated at this time.  However, smoke may be visible along both County Road 90 and 141 in the area.

Webcam image of the Bee Hive wildfire courtesy of fts360overwatch.com