Wildfire activity in Colorado remains relatively quiet, and thankfully smoke impacts from the Goltra fire near Golden are very minimal on Thursday morning.
However, fires in Wyoming (and other upwind states) remain active, and winds out of the north have drawn smoke into northern Colorado. Monitors on the EPA's fire and smoke map show recent, significant increases in particulate levels in Greeley and the surrounding areas. As these conditions persist during the daytime hours on Thursday, smoke may move into other areas including northern portions of the east plains, as well as along the Front Range, potentially affecting Fort Collins, Longmont, Denver, and areas in-between.
EPA's fire and smoke map indicates smoke from upwind states is being drawn into northern portions of Colorado on Thursday August 22, 2024.
As atmospheric mixing increases on Thursday, along with developing rain showers and thunderstorms throughout the region, surface concentrations may decrease throughout the day. Weather models also indicate that winds will shift during the late evening and overnight hours and limit the continued transport of smoke into Colorado.
For the time being, we expect that the Air Quality Index (AQI) due to fine particulate concentrations will remain in the Good to Moderate range, though short-term increases in smoke levels are possible. We recommend limiting time outdoors and reducing heavy physical exertion if possible in areas affected by smoke, especially for folks who are sensitive to particle pollution. Take precaution to protect you health from smoke exposure in areas where smoke and particulates are present.
We will continue to monitor conditions closely, and will post further updates as information and expectations continue to develop.
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