‘Very Unhealthy': Wildfire Smoke Impacts Boise Air Conditions

Take a look outside or just open your window for a brief second and you're likely to wonder...what on earth is going on out there?

Hazy skies, smelly air, and an overall feeling of 'grey' have taken over.

In Boise, there are all four seasons and then there's the fifth: wildfire season.

It's fair to say that this 'bonus season' has certainly begun.

There is no doubt that the several fires in Oregon are sending PLUMES of smoke into Idaho and it's what we're seeing, smelling, and feeling right now. Satellite images from many different sources are showing just how significant the smoke is from these Oregon and Washington fires but perhaps the most shocking fact? The smoke is expected to reach as far as Florida this week.

The Boise hub of the Northwest Weather Service has shared an update on smoke outlook for our area and to no surprise, that isn't great either:    

Air Quality as of Sunday reached a score of 204 which is categorized as 'very unhealthy', basically meaning that the air is bad for everyone, not just those that are sensitive to particles in the air.

The best advice from health professionals? Stay inside if you can, avoid prolonged outdoor activities if they aren't necessary (like runs or sport practices) and keep your home sealed off. Changing out air filters if you have not done so recently is recommended, as well.