Relief on the way?

 Another day of localized heavy smoke near the Stoner Mesa fire and the Derby fire. Much like yesterday, the heaviest smoke will likely remain in close vicinity to the fires.  For Stoner Mesa, parts of western Eagle and eastern Garfield Counties remain in the advisory area. The Sweetwater Lake area along with Colorado River Road between Dotsero and Burns will receive heavy smoke during the overnight and early mornings, with improving air quality during the afternoons.  Yesterday afternoon we did see some downwind impacts in places like Basalt and Aspen.  That possibility exists again today, but with showers and thunderstorms possible near the fire there could be gusty, erratic winds that could send smoke in any direction. Regardless, we don't anticipate smoke to travel very far from the fire site today.

At the Stoner Mesa fire, there has been very heavy smoke along Highway 145 between Dolores and Rico.  The Stoner area has been especially hard hit, so if you are camping or reside in this area please take action to protect your health.  You can even create a clean air space in your RV by constructing a DIY air cleaner.

The forecast appears encouraging for western Colorado over the next few days as a surge of monsoonal moisture should help decrease fire activity and smoke production.  In the meantime, we'll continue to monitor the smoke and issue advisories if necessary.