Updated
0900 MDT Tuesday, July 22, 2014
Valid
through Noon MDT Thursday, July 24, 2014
Smoke Outlook
Most of Idaho has maintained Good levels of air quality except
for north Idaho, which is currently experiencing Moderate conditions this
morning due to the fires burning in Washington.
Even with periods of Moderate, the 24hr AQI was in the Good category
except for Boise for all DEQ sites.
The upper level low off the coast of Washington will
funnel a jet max through most of Idaho, providing plenty of shear and energy
for thunderstorms this afternoon.
Eastern Idaho will only see isolated storms as this flow pattern is tracking
more north than northeast. Coupled with
monsoon moisture, precipitation amounts of 0.5” are likely from these
storms. Strong surface winds of around
40 mph are also forecast with these thunderstorms. A Red Flag Warning has been issued across
southwest Idaho for this lightning.
Similar unsettled weather can be expected on Wednesday
with a shift Wednesday night. A strong
cold front will pass bringing gusty winds and cool temperatures. By Thursday this upper level low will have
moved east of the Rockies, leaving Idaho in a position of westerly winds which
will bring more smoke from Oregon and Washington fires into the state.
Smoke impacts today will be primarily contained to
northern Idaho, although intrusions into eastern and southeastern Idaho and then
the Snake River Plain via fires in Utah are possible this evening. Overall, light impacts are expected across
the state as this smoke is transported aloft.
Expect similar impacts tomorrow and likely slightly more haze and high
smoke by Thursday.
Smoke forecasts are dependent on predicted
fire growth and weather. If conditions change unexpectedly, impacts could
occur. When visibility starts to go below 5 miles, sensitive groups
should minimize outdoor activities. Everyone else should minimize
prolonged or physical activity outdoors. Refer to the Smoke and Health Tab on the Idaho Smoke Information
Blog for additional
health information.
Your eyes are your best tools to determine if
it’s safe to be outside.
Even if you smell smoke, the air quality may still be good.
|
AQI Category
|
Visibility (miles)
|
|
Good
|
11+
|
|
Moderate
|
6-10
|
|
Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups
|
3-5
|
|
Unhealthy
|
1½ -2¾
|
|
Very Unhealthy
|
1-1¼
|
|
Hazardous
|
Less than 1
|
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