Air quality rapidly turning unhealthy, Carson City air monitors show
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Thu, 08/22/2013 - 3:43pm
Nevada Division of Environmental Protection air quality monitors in Carson City and in Gardnerville are reporting high particulate matter from smoke indicating the air quality Thursday is unhealthy, officials said.
A fire burning in Tuolumne County, Calif., near Yosemite National Park, is the main source of smoke in the Carson City, Carson Valley, Reno and Lyon County regions. The Rim Fire is estimated at nearly 54,000 acres and growing Thursday with 2 percent containment.
"People living in our area may begin to experience adverse health affects because of the smoke," said JoAnn Kittrell, public information manager for the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
Members of sensitive groups, such as the elderly or young children, people with asthma or other respiratory issues, may experience more serious affects. People should absolutely avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outside, she said.
More information from the state is forthcoming. Check back for updates.
