Air Quality Advisory issued due to CA Smoke

Higher levels of smoke and ozone could increase the risk of respiratory problems, the Clark County Department of Air Quality said Wednesday. The advisory lasts until 2 p.m. Thursday afternoon.

Several reporting stations across the state are reporting reduced air quality, which may make it hard for some people to spend extended amounts of time outdoors.

This alert means that particulate levels are trending upward and an exceedance of the 24 hour National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) has occurred or may occur shortly. The advisory does not include Indian reservations.

Under this advisory, all open burning is prohibited, including campfires, recreational fires, weed control burning, and residential burning. Each stage has more restrictions designed to help improve air quality.

He said a good visual test is if you can’t see the East Ridge because of smoke in the air, then consider the air quality as unhealthy.

To reduce exposure, the department recommends limiting outdoor exertion, such as exercise.

The DEQ says the smoke is coming from fires in Idaho, Washington, Oregon and California.