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

Smoke Subsiding in Southeast Colorado

Smoke from several fires in neighboring states moved into Colorado on Saturday, but air quality has improved as of Sunday morning. The Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke is no longer in effect.

On Sunday morning, light to moderate smoke is possible in southeast Colorado, especially in Baca County. Folks who are extremely sensitive to smoke may want to take steps to protect their health. However, no major public health impacts are expected. Throughout the day, winds are expected to increase, helping to clear out the smoke. Good to Moderate air quality conditions are expected on Sunday.

One wildcard in Sunday's forecast is that a Red Flag Warning is in effect for southeast Colorado. CDPHE is monitoring for any new fires and will issue an advisory if heavy smoke returns.

Smoky Saturday for southeast Colorado

 Several fires are burning in Texas and Kansas, and smoke has reached southeast Colorado.

Moderate to heavy smoke is possible on Saturday in the southeast corner of the state. An Air Quality Health Advisory is in effect until 9 am Sunday morning. 

If you are sensitive to smoke, it may be a good idea to take precautions to protect your health today.

Several fires are burning in Kansas and Texas. Source: WatchDuty.

On Sunday, a low-pressure system is expected to move into Colorado. This change in wind direction could help to clear out the smoke, bringing improvements to air quality. CDPHE is monitoring the situation, and will continue the Air Quality Health Advisory if the smoke lingers.

You can stay up-to-date on smoke conditions by visiting EPA's Fire and Smoke Map.

Smoke in southeast Colorado

Smoke from multiple fires is lingering in the southwest corner of the state. 

The State Line Fire, CR G Fire, and County Road 51 Fire are burning in or near southeast Colorado. Smoke from these fires is lingering in the area, as far north as Lamar. 

CDPHE is monitoring the situation and will issue an advisory if conditions worsen. For now, we recommend that folks who are sensitive to wildfire smoke take precautions to protect their health.

Stay up-to-date with real-time air quality conditions at EPA's Fire and Smoke Map.

Prescribed burning operations taking place in La Plata County

The Saul's Creek Prescribed Burn is being conducted by the San Juan National Forest in eastern La Plata County.  Smoke from this operation may be visible from Bayfield and surrounding areas, including along Highway 160 in eastern La Plata County.

Map showing the location of the Saul's Creek Prescribed burn, east of Bayfield, CO in La Plata County.

While public health impacts are expected to remain minimal, keeping doors and windows closed in buildings, and using the recirculate setting in your vehicle if travelling through this area will help to reduce the amount of smoke in these settings.

If smoke is present in your location, taking measures to protect your health is recommended; particularly if you are sensitive to smoke (fine particulate matter). More information about this operation and reducing health impacts can be found using the tabs above.

Areas of smoke possible in southern El Paso County

The Hammer Fire is located in southern El Paso County, southeast of Fountain, CO; east of I-25. Winds near the fire will mainly come from the west or southwest on Wednesday night, pushing smoke to the east or northeast of the fire, affecting mainly rural portions of El Paso County. Breezy winds will also help to disperse smoke in areas in the immediate vicinity of the fire.

Map of the location of the Hammer Fire, southeast of Fountain Colorado. Image courtesy of WatchDuty.

Smoke may be visible at times in areas of southern El Paso County on Wednesday evening and Thursday morning, including along I-25 to the east of Fort Carson. If smoke is present in your location, take measures to protect your health from exposure to wildfire smoke.

Monday morning smoke across southwestern Colorado

 

EPA's Fire and Smoke Map show elevated smoke levels in southwestern Colorado

Smoke has settled across sections of southwestern Colorado from yesterday's Boggy Draw prescribed fire which is located a few miles northeast of Dolores (near the "T" on the above map).  EPA's Fire and Smoke Map above shows elevated levels of fine particulate matter at various air quality monitors across southwestern Colorado. These levels should come down by this afternoon as mixing of the atmosphere improves. In the meantime, you may want to slow it down while you are outdoors.

The San Juan National Forest plans on burning an additional 344 acres today (about 1/4 of what was burned yesterday). So expect smoke to be visible around the area with downwind impacts again possible this afternoon in Rico and Silverton. 

Downwind smoke from Boggy Draw prescribed fire

 The large plume of smoke from the Boggy Draw prescribed fire, located just northeast of Dolores, is moving from southwest to northeast.  This is creating some downwind smoke impacts, including in the town of Rico on Highway 145 in Dolores County.  If you reside in Rico, remaining indoors with the windows closed is recommended through tomorrow morning.  We may also see some of this smoke reach other areas further  to the northeast, including Silverton, Ophir, Ames and perhaps even Telluride. 

Please remember that as we move through the overnight hours and into Monday morning, we are expecting some smoke to push down towards the community of Dolores. Moderate to heavy smoke may be present when the sun rises Monday morning, so please take steps to protect your health. 

Boggy Draw prescribed fire confirmed for Sunday

 The San Juan National Forest have confirmed that they intend to burn approximately 1200 acres on Sunday (see yesterday's blog post below for a map and additional information).  If you have outdoor plans on Sunday in places like McPhee Reservoir or up along Highway 145 east of Dolores, do not be alarmed if you see a large plume of smoke Sunday afternoon.

Although health impacts from the smoke are not anticipated on Sunday, there could be some moderate to heavy smoke moving down Italian Canyon to Highway 145 and possibly into Dolores late Sunday night and early Monday morning.  If you reside in Dolores, you will probably want to close your windows before heading off to bed Sunday night. Also, you may want to delay any outdoor activities or exercise planned for Monday morning as smoke could linger until noon.  Better air quality can be expected by Monday afternoon.

Possible prescribed burning near Dolores this weekend

The San Juan National Forest may conduct a prescribed burn beginning Sunday, April 19, at the Boggy Draw site. 

As this operation is underway, smoke may be visible nearby, including along Highway 145. Overnight, smoke may drain into the canyon along Highway 145 and reach Dolores.

The site is located in Montezuma County, roughly 4 miles northeast of Dolores.

Check EPA's Fire and Smoke Map for real-time air quality sensor data in the area. For more information on the health impacts of wood smoke, visit CDPHE's Wood Smoke and Health page. For more information on prescribed burning in the San Juan National Forest, visit their website.

Smoky Denver rush hour

 As stated earlier, smoke from Nebraska wildfires has traversed across northeastern Colorado and arrived to the Denver metro area.  Fine particulate levels have spiked and visibility has degraded considerably. Fortunately, Denver and surrounding areas will see slow and gradual improvement through this evening. In the meantime, remaining indoors with the doors and windows closed is a good idea. While outside, slow it down a bit.  By later this evening, air quality is expected to improve noticeably.

Denver skyline webcam image Thursday afternoon (https://www.colorado.gov/airquality/live_image.aspx)

Updated expectations for smoke from the 24 Fire

Smoke impacts due to the 24 Fire, located on Fort Carson in south-central Colorado, will continue to be highly variable on Thursday and into Friday. Winds on Thursday have come mainly from the west. Winds are expected to remain breezy and gusty on Thursday afternoon and into the overnight period, however the direction will change as a cooler air mass moves in from the east. This has several implications for fire behavior and smoke impacts.

First, fire behavior may increase once again on Thursday, as was seen on Wednesday, during the warm and dry afternoon. This could increase smoke production, but may also will help with dispersion as atmospheric lift moves much of the smoke vertically away from the surface, and winds help to dissipate concentrations. The west-to-east transport will also limit impacts from smoke in areas of Fremont County, such as Penrose, Florence, and Cañon City.

The second change that we anticipate is a shift in the wind direction this evening, with winds switching to come from the east. This will move smoke in the opposite direction, and toward the above mentioned communities. As the winds shift, the air will cool as the sun goes down, and as cooler air is transported into the region. This will decrease lift in the atmosphere, and smoke may stay closer to ground level. This may create periods of smoke and haze, particularly in areas closest to the fire. Though the shift in wind direction may increase smoke in neighboring communities, breezy and gusty conditions will help to limit overall smoke concentrations.

Map showing the location of the 24 Fire near Cañon City, Colorado, with arrows indicating expected wind directions on Thursday, and Thursday night/Friday morning. Map image from WatchDuty App, 24 Fire information

The third change that is expected is an increase in relative humidity and chances for precipitation. The cool, moist airmass that is incoming will assist in decreasing fire behavior and smoke production. Higher humidity values will remain in the area, and as winds decrease a bit on Friday also, fire behavior is expected to be dampened. 

The take-away message from all of this is: changes are coming, so folks in areas near the 24 Fire should remain prepared to protect their health during any smoke episodes that may be experienced, but also know that these periods of impact are expected to be relatively short lived.

As of this writing (3 pm on 3/26/26) an Air Quality Health Advisory is not anticipated. CDPHE forecasters are watching as all of this unfolds, and will respond with messaging and alerts if they become necessary. As always, our goal is to communicate our expectations so that folks can make informed decisions on what is the right action to take, and when.

Smoke arrives in northeast Colorado, moving towards Denver

Smoke from Nebraska has moved into northeast Colorado. 

Smoke, in gray, is visible on satellite imagery. Image courtesy of RAMMB Cira Slider.

The Ashby Fire and the Minor Fire are burning in Nebraska. Smoke from these fires pushed into northeast Colorado on Thursday. Particulate matter concentrations are elevated for some locations in northeast Colorado, including Fort Morgan, Sterling, and Julesburg. 

Smoke is continuing to move southwest towards the Denver Metro area on Thursday afternoon. Some locations may notice a brief increase in particulate matter, but we do not expect prolonged periods of heavy smoke. 

No major public health impacts are expected at this time, but folks who are particularly sensitive to smoke may want to take steps to protect their health.

24 wildfire intensifying once again

 Hot, dry and windy conditions are once again increasing fire activity at the 24 wildfire located on Ft. Carson army base.  A large smoke plume has developed and is spreading to the north and east of the fire's location near the intersection of the El Paso, Pueblo, and Fremont county lines.  Fortunately, there is quite a bit of lift in the atmosphere that is keeping most of the smoke high up in the sky, though a few brief periods of smoke could move down to the surface near Fountain and southern parts of the Colorado Springs area.  

Some changes will likely arrive after the sun sets.  As atmospheric mixing decreases with cooler temperatures, smoke will start to hug the surface of the earth and potentially impact nearby communities.  We also anticipate the wind to shift which could send smoke in various directions. One direction it could move is to the south and southwest which could impact parts of Fremont County, including Cañon City, Florence and Penrose. This is most likely to occur at some point between 8pm and midnight Wednesday evening. Fortunately, any smoke that infiltrates these areas should be relatively brief (perhaps an hour or two), so significant health impacts are not anticipated at this time. However, it is always a good idea to take steps to protect your health when smoke is present in your neighborhood, including remaining indoors with the doors and windows closed until the smoke clears.

A cold front will be arriving Thursday night which could bring some more impactful changes to the air quality in Fremont County. A wind shift may push smoke into those same Fremont County locations discussed above for several hours Thursday night. Wet weather likely arrives Friday morning which would clear out the smoke and improve the air quality. We will monitor the situation closely and issue an advisory for Thursday night, if necessary.

View of the 24 wildfire from Fremont County Airport to the east of Cañon City (weathercams.faa.gov)

Update on 24 Fire in Fremont, El Paso, Pueblo Counties

The 24 Fire continues to burn near the Fremont/El Paso/Pueblo County intersection. The fire is currently at 7,404 acres with 24% containment. Portions of the fire remain active at times, producing smoke that may cause intermittent impacts in areas near the fire. Good atmospheric mixing and ventilation will help to lift and disperse smoke during daytime hours. However, warm and dry conditions are also expected, with a Red Flag Warning in place in areas near the fire. Breezy and gusty winds may be present on Wednesday and Thursday, and may increase fire behavior and smoke production. Additionally, periods of moderate to heavy smoke may be encountered during the overnight hours in locations adjacent to the most active portions of the fire.

Folks in areas near this incident are encouraged to take precautionary preparations to limit impacts from smoke, if conditions worsen quickly.

Over the last several days, periodic impacts from moderate to heavy smoke have been observed, but overall have not met conditions that warrant the issuance of a widespread or long-lasting Air Quality Health Advisory. CDPHE meteorologists continue to watch this incident closely, and will respond with advisories and alerts if necessary.

Wildfire on Ft. Carson remains active

 The 24 wildfire continues to actively burn on the Ft. Carson US Army post located near the intersection of the El Paso, Fremont, and Pueblo County lines.  It is now approaching 2000 acres in size with the recent, hot, dry and windy conditions.  

The good news is that the majority of the smoke has been lofting well into the sky during the afternoons and evenings for the past several days. Additionally, overnight smoke (which is generally the heaviest and creates the biggest health concerns) has remained away from the local communities.

One thing we are watching closely is the anticipated wind shift that will be arriving on Sunday.  This could push smoke into new directions, however it still appears that most of the nearby towns will be spared from the worst of the smoke impacts.  Despite this, there remains the possibility for brief periods of heavy smoke in communities to the south of the fire such as Penrose and Florence.  Even areas a bit further from the fire, including Pueblo and Cañon City, could see some smoke from time to time.  

Although an advisory is not anticipated at this time, residents in the area can get prepared to protect their health from wildfire smoke by visiting CDPHE's Wildfire smoke and health webpage. It could very well be a long and impactful wildfire season in Colorado, so being prepared now could certainly come in handy later this spring and summer.

Heat signature of the 24 wildfire from Band 7 shortwave satellite imagery on Saturday evening.

Smoke visible from Fremont County Fire

The 24 Fire in Fremont County sparked on Wednesday, March 18. A new plume of smoke appeared Thursday afternoon, pushing southeast. Hazy skies are likely this afternoon, particularly in Pueblo County. Residents in northeastern Fremont and southwestern El Paso counties also may notice haze.

A plume of smoke is visible on satellite imagery. Image courtesy of RAMMB Cira Slider.

Currently, atmospheric mixing is good, allowing smoke to mix vertically into the atmosphere, rather than sinking to the surface. Because of this, no major public health impacts are expected at this time. CDPHE will continue to monitor the situation and issue an Air Quality Health Advisory if necessary. 

Additionally, if you are located near the fire, you may consider taking steps to protect your health. 

For real-time air quality conditions near you, check Colorado's Monitoring Network or your nearest PurpleAir Sensor.

Lingering smoke in southeastern Colorado

 Although many parts of eastern Colorado have seen air quality improvement over the past several hours, some areas continue to deal with lingering smoke from wildfires in Nebraska.  The atmosphere has been a bit more stubborn in southeastern Colorado, particularly along the Arkansas River Valley from Pueblo eastward through La Junta to Lamar.  Therefore, the Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke has been extended through 9am Saturday morning.  Continue to limit activities that require physical exertion in this part of Colorado, and also reduce your time outdoors if possible.  The smoke should gradually decrease as we head into the start of the weekend.

A hazy sky over Kit Carson County Airport in Burlington (weathercams.faa.gov)

Friday morning surprise smoke across eastern Colorado

 Smoke from a couple of large wildfires in Nebraska has spread into eastern Colorado on easterly winds.  High levels of fine particulates have been reported Friday morning along the Platte River Valley from Julesburg westward into Sterling, Ft. Morgan, Greeley, and even parts of Ft. Collins along the foothills.  Smoke has also pushed into the east-central and southeastern plains. with smoke concentrating along the Arkansas River Valley from Lamar westward to La Junta and Rocky Ford.

The good news regarding air quality is that the smoke should rapidly dissipate during the morning hours across northeastern Colorado as gusty westerly winds develop.  These winds will improve atmospheric mixing and smoke should decrease quickly.  Smoke may linger a bit longer for areas further south, as it may not be until this afternoon until we see improvement along the Arkansas River Valley.  Due to the high levels of particle pollution with this smoke, an Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke has been issued.

Be sure to protect your health while smoke is present in your neighborhood.  Remaining indoors and avoiding physical exertion are a good start.  You can find more way to protect your health at CDPHE's Wildfire smoke and health webpage.

Heavy smoke Friday morning at Ft. Morgan Municipal Airport (weathercams.faa.gov)

Prescribed Burning Operations Planned at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal

Several prescribed burns are planned over the coming days and weeks at the Rocky Mountain Arsenal. Operations are intended to begin as early as Thursday March 5th. Smoke from prescribed burns may be visible from the Denver Metro area, especially in northern Denver and near the Rocky Mountain Arsenal.

For additional information on burning operations, please refer to the Prescribed Fire Map using the tab above. Also, you can find information about how smoke may affect your health on the CDPHE webpage: Wood smoke and your health.

Pile burning season appears like it will finally arrive to Colorado later this week

 

A pile burn in the Grand Mesa National Forest, November 2020

Two factors have really delayed pile burning in Colorado as we approach the end of 2025.  First, the federal government shutdown has not allowed agencies to work on these types of projects.  Second, the weather has definitely not been cooperative.  Pile burning really ramps up when the snow starts flying.  As Coloradoans are well aware, snow has been lacking in a big way this autumn.  

Fortunately, it appears that both of those factors are changing.  With federal agencies getting back to work and a big weather pattern change on the way, we should start to see a significant increase in pile burning operations.

We will provide occasional updates on pile burning projects, especially the bigger burns that will be in close vicinity to communities that could be impacted by the smoke.  You can check the status of scheduled burn operations at the "Prescribed fire map" tab above.  Also be sure to to check out our Woodsmoke and your health webpage if there will be prescribed fires taking place near your area.

There are also many other great resources to get prescribed fire information from individual national forests.  The Arapaho & Roosevelt National Forest provides information including an interactive map. Also check out the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest webpage for burn information in that part of Colorado.

Update on Prescribed Burning Operations This Week

As mentioned in a post yesterday, two prescribed burns were scheduled to take place along the Front Range this week. This post serves as an update on those planned operations.

The Mathews Pasture, Spruce Meadows project is located in southern Douglas County will take place today, Wednesday, November 12. Smoke from this operation will be visible at times along I-25 between Larkspur and Monument, as well as in areas near the burn site. Please refer to the news story provided by Douglas County for additional information. To see the location of the burn, please refer to previous blog post or the Prescribed Fire Map tab above.

Planned operations for prescribed burning in Boulder County have been postponed, and will not take place this week. Once this operation has been rescheduled, we will provide updated information and expectations.

Prescribed Burning Operations Planned This Week

Two projects for prescribed burning operations are planned to take place along the Front Range this week.

The Mathews Pasture, Spruce Meadows project is located in southern Douglas County, between Larkspur and Monument. These operations are planned to take place on Wednesday November, 12. Smoke from this burn will be visible along I-25 and from locations in this area. Please see the map in the image below for the location of this burn, or consult the Prescribed Fire Map by clicking on the tab above.

Map of location of the Mathews Pasture, Spruce Meadows prescribed burning operation.

The Flatirons Vista project is located south of Boulder, near Eldorado Springs, and is currently expected to take place on Thursday, November, 13. Planning and resource assembly are underway for this operation, taking great care to ensure public safety and minimize any impacts to local air quality. Smoke from this operation will be visible from many locations along the Front Range including Boulder, Broomfield, and the surrounding communities.

As with the above mentioned project, please see the map in the image below for the location of this burn, or consult the Prescribed Fire Map by clicking on the tab above.

Map of location of the Flatirons Vista prescribed burning operation.

The ignition for both operations has not yet been confirmed, and will be based on adequate staffing resources and favorable weather conditions. Due to the visibility of both projects CDPHE/APCD and the agencies conducting these operations want to draw public awareness to these plans.

No significant public health impacts are expected from either operation, however light to moderate smoke is possible in the immediate vicinity of both prescribed burns. If you are sensitive to smoke (fine particulates), please consider taking precautions to protect your health in these areas as these operations take place.

Prescribed burning operations taking place in Boulder County

 A test burn for a prescribed burning operation will take place in Boulder County on Wednesday, just west of Lyons. The location of this burn and additional information can be found on the Prescribed Fire Map, accessed through the tab at the top of this page. Smoke from this operation will be visible on Wednesday afternoon in areas near the burn site, as well as from locations along the Front Range. 

No public health impacts are expected from this operation, however light to moderate concentrations of smoke may be present in areas in the immediate vicinity, possibly including the town of Lyons.

If you are sensitive to smoke, please consult the health recommendations found via the Health Information tab above.

Elevated levels of smoke linger in areas near prescribed burns in southwestern Colorado

PurpleAir particulate monitors show that localized areas of smoke have continued to linger during overnight and early morning hours, due to prescribed fire activity that took place this week.

Screenshot from PurpleAir showing elevated levels of smoke in localized areas near Pagosa Springs, CO on Saturday morning. Raw PM2.5 data are corrected with US EPA conversion factor, using 1 hour timeseries, valid at 8:21 am on September 20, 2025.

Over the last several days, we have seen higher particulate numbers early in the day, with concentrations decreasing during the afternoon and evening as daytime mixing of the atmosphere and smoke dispersion take place. This pattern may continue until fuels have stopped smoldering. Similar smoke behavior may also be observed in other areas where prescribed burning has recently been performed.

We urge anyone in areas that are affected by smoke, especially those who are sensitive to particulate pollution, to remain aware of conditions and protect your health through whichever actions are most appropriate for you.

Prescribed burns in southern Colorado

 A 370-acre prescribed fire is scheduled for today in San Miguel County. This burn is located northeast of Dove Creek. Smoke may be visible in the area on Friday, but no major public health impacts are expected. If you are near the burn and sensitive to smoke, it's a good idea to protect your health. 

Location of the burn in relation to Dove Creek, Colorado. Image courtesy of Google Maps.

Also, smoke is lingering near Pagosa Springs from another prescribed fire, which took place on Thursday. This smoke may continue Friday morning, but should begin to clear by the afternoon.

Purple Air sensors near Pagosa Springs show smoke is lingering Friday morning. Sensors show 1-hr Raw PM 2.5 data, current as of 11:15 AM.

Visit our Prescribed Fire Map page or the Prescribed Fire Information tab above for more information on prescribed burns.

Large prescribed burn taking place on Thursday in SW Colorado

 A 400 acre prescribed burn is planned to take place today near Pagosa Springs. The Brockover Devil Creek Rx project is located north of Highway 160, in between Pagosa Springs and Chimney Rock. Smoke may be visible in this area as these operations take place. Please see the Prescribed Fire tab above for more information.

Location of the prescribed burning operations is shown on a map, courtesy of the National Weather Service spot forecast Monitor page.

While no significant public health impacts are expected from this operation, folks in this area who are sensitive to smoke may choose to take actions to prevent health impacts.

Some smoke improvements for Sunday

In northwestern and north-central Colorado, the smoke has mostly moved out. An Air Quality Health Advisory was in effect Saturday, but will expire at 9 am today. PurpleAir sensors across the northwest have shown a dramatic reduction in Particulate Matter concentrations as of this morning. Particulate matter concentrations are expected to be in the Good to Moderate range on Sunday and Monday.

On the Front Range and eastern Plains, smoke is lingering this morning. But changes are on the way. Unsettled weather, shifting winds, and scattered showers will help to clear out the lingering smoke. Particulate Matter concentrations are expected to drop throughout the day on Sunday.

CDPHE does not anticipate issuing any Air Quality Health Advisories at this time. For the most up-to-date air quality information, visit CDPHE's Monitoring Website or PurpleAir.

Lingering smoke on Saturday

 Smoke began moving into northwest Colorado on Friday afternoon. Northwestern and north-central Colorado are waking up to smoky conditions this weekend. This smoke is expected to continue through Sunday morning. 

An Air Quality Health Advisory remains in effect for northwestern and north-central Colorado until Sunday morning. This advisory was issued on Friday afternoon for Moffat, Routt, Jackson, and Grand Counties. As of Saturday morning, this advisory has been updated to include three more counties: Clear Creek, Gilpin, and Summit. Moderate to heavy smoke is possible throughout the advisory area on Saturday and Sunday. 

Changes are coming on Sunday. Today, upper-level winds are coming from the northwest, where the smoke is heavy. On Sunday, these upper-level winds are expected to shift to westerly (coming from the west), where the air is cleaner. A shift to westerly winds would bring cleaner air into northwest Colorado. Particulate Matter concentrations are expected to drop throughout the day on Sunday. Until then, in the advisory area, it's a good idea to take steps to protect your health. For the latest air quality information, visit CDPHE's monitoring website or PurpleAir.

Smoke moving into northwest Colorado

 Smoke has been impacting eastern Colorado for most of this week. Today, smoke has begun moving into counties west of the Divide. We'll break it down, starting in the northwest corner of the state. 

Northwestern Colorado is experiencing the heaviest smoke. Purple Air sensors show that particulate matter concentrations began rising on Friday afternoon. This smoke is expected to linger Friday night into early Saturday morning. An Air Quality Health Advisory is in effect for Moffat, Routt, Jackson, and Grand Counties through Saturday morning.

Further south, in Eagle, Summit, Gilpin, and Clear Creek Counties, smoke is less intense. There will be noticeable haze along I-70 on Friday afternoon and Saturday morning.

Purple Air Sensors show that the heaviest smoke is in northwestern Colorado.

On the Front Range, the heaviest period of smoke is behind us. Particulate Matter concentrations are expected to be in the Moderate category throughout the weekend.

Air quality is expected to improve next week, as upper-level winds shift and smoke clears out.

Wildfire smoke continues to increase

Smoke has arrived to the northeastern plains of Colorado.  Moderate to heavy smoke has been observed across the northeastern corner of the state.  Fortunately, as we stated in our last post, we don't expect this smoke to be around for an extended period of time.  A cold front later on this evening should usher in some cleaner air overnight and air quality should be improved in places like Julesburg, Sterling, Ft. Morgan, and Akron by Friday morning.  In the meantime, reducing exertion is probably a good idea for the remainder of today.  This is especially true if you suffer from heart or lung ailments.

Hazy skies and poor visibility in Akron, Colorado Thursday afternoon.  Webcam image is courtesy of Viaero Wireless Weather Cameras

Meanwhile, smoke is also increasing further west along the northern Front Range urban corridor.  Fine particle concentrations are increasing in Denver, Boulder, Longmont, Ft. Collins, Greeley, and other areas along and near Interstate 25.  Combined with typical urban pollution, both ozone and fine particulate concentrations are inching towards the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups category.  Therefore, an Action Day for Multiple Pollutants has been issued for the northern Front Range. We anticipate both ozone and fine particulates to be elevated through this evening, so avoiding prolonged or heavy exertion is recommended through late tonight. By tomorrow (Friday), ozone will likely decrease somewhat with cooler air rushing in behind the cold front.  However, fine particle concentrations could remain elevated for a longer period of time.  Health impacts from prolonged exposure to wildfire smoke can linger even after the air quality improves, so it may be a good idea to plan on reducing exertion through at least tomorrow afternoon.

Haze over the Denver skyline from the Colorado Air Pollution Control Division web camera

We are also closely monitoring other parts of Colorado for increasing wildfire smoke.  East-central and southeastern parts of the state, including Burlington, Lamar, Colorado Springs, and Pueblo could see an increase in particle pollution overnight tonight and continue into the Friday morning commute.  The same can be said for northwestern parts of the state with the possibility for a larger smoke intrusion tomorrow afternoon in places like Steamboat Springs and Granby. More information to follow as this situation continues to evolve.

Smoke arriving from out-of-state on Thursday

Smoke from fires in areas upwind from Colorado is now making its way toward, and into Colorado. Surface concentrations are currently in the Moderate category in most areas of Colorado, however the numbers have climbed in areas just to our north and east throughout the morning, and the this trend is expected to be seen in eastern Colorado as the day progresses.

Satellite image of the western United States shows a large plume of smoke across many states, reaching from the Pacific Northwest into Montana, Wyoming, and Nebraska. This smoke will make its way into Colorado on Thursday afternoon (smoke plume and likely path of travel indicated by red arrow). Image courtesy of RAMMB/CIRA.

Increases in particulate concentrations will be seen first in the far northeastern portions of the state as surface smoke moves in, and daytime mixing of the atmosphere draws smoke aloft down to ground-level. Locations such as Sterling and Fort Morgan will be the first to notice this change.

Winds out of the north-northeast will then push the smoke further to the south and west. This will likely produce hazy skies and elevated particulate concentrations in many areas of eastern Colorado, including the Front Range.

Currently we do not expect that any Air Quality Health Advisories or Action Days will be necessary. Models and observations both indicate that the smoke plume is relatively concentrated, meaning that once the densest portion of the plume moves through, concentrations are likely to decrease once again. However in the short-term, we expect particulate levels to increase on Thursday afternoon and evening before relief arrives on Friday. If conditions worsen further than we expect them to, we will be watching closely and will issue Advisories as needed.

Folks who are sensitive to smoke and particulate pollution should begin taking steps to avoid exposure and reduce potential health impacts now. Helpful tips and actions can be found on our Smoke and Health page.

Stay informed by checking in here and on CDPHE's webpage for information regarding advisories. You can also see the location of the smoke plume and surface observations at EPA's Fire and Smoke Map.

More smoke arriving later this week

 Many large wildfires are burning in the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia. Smoke from these fires could begin to impact northeastern Colorado by Thursday afternoon.

A heavy blanket of smoke is visible over western Canada and the northwestern United States. This smoke could move into Colorado by Thursday afternoon. Image courtesy of CIRA-RAMMB.

In the Pacific Northwest, particulate matter is in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Unhealthy Range today. Some smoke has made its way into Colorado, but particulate matter is in the Good to Moderate range today. Tomorrow, particulate matter could increase as the smoke to our north begins to push south.

By Thursday afternoon, the wind will begin to increase. Northerly winds will push smoke into northeastern Colorado. Smoke will hit Fort Collins, Greeley, Fort Morgan, Sterling, and Julesburg first. Then, it will continue to move south, hitting Boulder, Denver, and Colorado Springs. Particulate Matter concentrations will increase as the smoke moves in. If you are sensitive to smoke, take steps to protect your health on Thursday.

Visit the Idaho Smoke Blog or the Washington Smoke Blog for more information on smoke in the Pacific Northwest.

CDPHE is monitoring the situation and will issue an Air Quality Health Advisory if necessary.