Update: Air quality alert issued for Colorado until Tuesday evening

Published Mar 18, 2025

On Tuesday at 1:10 p.m. an updated air quality alert was reported by the National Weather Service in effect until 7 p.m. for Colorado.

The NWS adds to expect, “Air Quality Health Advisory for Blowing Dust.”

“Strong winds may produce blowing dust on Tuesday. Blowing dust should decrease by early Tuesday evening as winds decrease,” explains the NWS.

The full list of affected locations includes:

• Pueblo County

• Otero County

• Bent County

• Baca County

• Alamosa County

• Crowley County

• Saguache County

• Huerfano County

• Rio Grande County

• Kiowa County

• Costilla County

• Conejos County

• Las Animas County

• Prowers County

Air quality alerts: Recommendations from the NWS

When an air quality alert is in effect, following the NWS guidance is pivotal. Here are some simple tips from the NWS for safeguarding your well-being:

Prioritize indoor stay:

If you can, take refuge indoors, especially if you have respiratory concerns, underlying health conditions, or belong to 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.

Scale back pollution-inducing practices:

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.

No open burning:

Refrain from kindling fires with debris or any other materials during an air quality alert. Such practices only contribute to heightened air pollution.

Stay informed:

Stay updated by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news outlet. Staying informed helps you make wise choices regarding outdoor activities during air quality alerts.

Focus on respiratory health:

If you have respiratory issues or health problems, exercise extra caution. These conditions can make you more vulnerable to the adverse effects of poor air quality.

By adhering to the advice from the NWS, you can enhance your safety during air quality alerts while reducing your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay aware, stay protected, and make your health a top priority.

Source: The National Weather Service