California fire puts Carson Valley air in 'Hazardous' category, Carson City 'Very Unhealthy'
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Wed, 07/19/2017 - 8:10am
The air quality Wednesday is considered to be "very unhealthy" in Carson City and "hazardous" in the Carson Valley area, according to the current Air Quality Index.
Thick smoke began to move into the area from the Detwiler Fire in Mariposa County, Calif. and began to worsen by Wednesday morning. Around the Minden/Garnerville area readings have increased to the "Hazardous" range this morning, according to the National Weather Service.
According to AirNow.gov "Unhealthy" AQI is 151 to 200. Everyone may begin to experience some adverse health effects, and members of the sensitive groups may experience more serious effects.
"Very Unhealthy" AQI is 201 to 300. This would trigger a health alert signifying that everyone may experience more serious health effects.
"Hazardous" AQI greater than 300. This would trigger a health warnings of emergency conditions. The entire population is more likely to be affected. Double click on graphics to enlarge.
Southwesterly winds overnight pushed smoke and haze into the region from the Detwiler Fire. Conditions should improve by mid afternoon as westerly winds pick up and push the smoke out of the area.
The current AQI (Air Quality Index) is "very unhealthy" in Carson City and surrounding areas as the bulk of the smoke is near the surface. For more information on air quality see airnow.gov.
Reno is currently in the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" category.
With several summer fires roaring through the region and air quality levels reaching "very unhealthy" and "hazardous" smoke levels, it’s important to be mindful of our surroundings and make small adjustments to our daily routine to stay safe.
Carson Tahoe Health recommends:
— Shelter in place, stay indoors
— Keep hydrated to progress a cough and help prevent smoky air from settling in the lungs
— Use air conditioning if possible, to help filter air throughout a house
— Keep all doors and windows shut in both home and vehicles, if in a vehicle make sure the air conditioner is set to reticulate the air
— Humidifiers will help the air quality in a home or building
— Masks are available for purchase at hardware stores and can really help filter the air and aid in comfort
— At-risk individuals such as those with certain health conditions, young children, and the elderly should be extra mindful of these guidelines for optimal safety.
Seek emergency care if:
— You are having trouble breathing or can’t say more than four words without having to stop and take a breath
— You experience excessive sweating
— Your lips are turning blue
— You are confused or lose consciousness
For additional details on staying safe through heavy smoke conditions, visit https://carsontahoe.com/stay-safe-in-the-smoke/.
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