Big Cooldown and More Smoke Expected This Weekend

Southwestern Fires Spread Smoke Across the West Coast

As multiple large fires continue to burn in the southwestern United States, smoke is expected to remain thick across much of the West Coast through the end of the week. Air quality in many areas has reached unhealthy levels, and residents are being advised to stay indoors if possible.

The largest fires are burning in Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas. The Telegraph Fire in Arizona has burned over 170,000 acres and is only 20% contained. The Hermits Peak Fire in New Mexico has burned over 310,000 acres and is only 30% contained. And the Black Fire in Texas has burned over 110,000 acres and is also only 30% contained.

Smoke Expected to Worsen Before It Improves

Unfortunately, the situation is expected to get worse before it gets better. A large cold front is expected to move into the region this weekend, which will bring strong winds and low humidity. These conditions will fan the flames and make it more difficult for firefighters to contain the blazes.

The smoke from the fires is expected to continue to spread across the West Coast. Air quality in many areas will likely reach unhealthy levels, and residents are being advised to stay indoors if possible.

How to Stay Safe

If you live in an area that is affected by smoke, it is important to take precautions to protect your health.

• Stay indoors if possible.
• Keep windows and doors closed.
• Use an air purifier.
• Wear a mask if you must go outside.
• Avoid strenuous activity.

If you have any health problems, such as asthma or heart disease, it is important to talk to your doctor about how to protect yourself from the smoke.

Resources

For more information on the fires and smoke, please visit the following resources:

• U.S. Forest Service Fire and Aviation Management
• InciWeb: Incident Information System
• AirNow: Smoke Map