On Wednesday at 4:11 p.m. an updated air quality alert was reported by the National Weather Service in effect until Thursday at 9 a.m. for Dolores County.
The NWS adds to anticipate, “Air Quality Health Advisory for Wildfire Smoke.”
“The Stoner Mesa fire in eastern Dolores County will create areas of moderate to heavy smoke on Wednesday and Thursday. The greatest impacts are expected in sheltered areas and low-lying terrain in areas in the immediate vicinity of the fire, including the Stoner Creek drainage and along Highway 145 near Rico,” comments the NWS.
Guidance for air quality alerts: Insights from the NWS
When an air quality alert pops up on the radar, deciphering its implications is crucial. These alerts, issued by the NWS, come with straightforward yet essential guidance to ensure your safety:
Seek shelter indoors when possible:
If possible, remain indoors, especially if you have respiratory issues, other health concerns, or fall within the senior or child demographics.
Minimize outdoor exposure:
When venturing outside is unavoidable, restrict your time outdoors solely to essential activities. Reducing exposure is paramount.
Mitigate pollution sources:
Be mindful of activities that exacerbate pollution, such as driving cars, operating gas-powered lawnmowers, or using other motorized vehicles. Limit their use during air quality alerts.
Banish open burning:
Avoid burning debris or any other materials during air quality alerts. This contributes to worsened air quality.
Stay informed:
Stay updated of developments by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news source. Being well-informed empowers you to make informed decisions regarding outdoor pursuits during air quality alerts.
Focus on respiratory health:
If you grapple with respiratory issues or underlying health problems, exercise added caution. These conditions can render you more susceptible to the adverse effects of compromised air quality.
Following the recommendations from the NWS helps bolster your safety during air quality alerts, minimizing your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay vigilant, stay protected, and make your health the top priority.
Source: The National Weather Service