Wildfire Growth in California Sets Smoke and Dust Records

Looking up, you squint as red-tinged smoke blots the sun. These are the conditions many people in California have been living with as wildfires scorch the western United States.

The National Weather Service in Hanford, California shared that smoke from the Ferguson Fire created the worst air quality in the world for over 24 hours.

The Weather Service also reported this same firestorm produced the most significant dust storm warning ever recorded in the United States. The haboob-like conditions cut visibility to near zero.

Smoke and ash tell a grim story.

As the fires burn and smoke fills the skies, much of the affected areas have stayed indoors under mandatory evacuation orders.

Even sheltered from the thickest smoke, residents must still be cautious when stepping outside, especially those with respiratory conditions, such as asthma.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) is used to determine whether air pollution is good, moderate, unhealthy for sensitive groups, unhealthy, very unhealthy, or hazardous.

When California’s AQI reaches unhealthy, people start getting sick and should remain indoors.

When the AQI is deemed hazardous, that is considered “emergency conditions” and people must seal up their homes and avoid all physical exertion outdoors.

Last month, the AQI in Fresno hit 759. That’s six times the hazardous level.

Unfortunately, new wildfires pop up while older blazes continue. Shifting winds carry smoke throughout the state, subjecting more people to unhealthy air.

Experts say climate change is exacerbating the problem.

Parched lands, drought-stricken forests, and a rise in temperature set the stage for more frequent and more ferocious wildfires.

The smoke and dust particles can irritate the lungs, cause respiratory infections, and exacerbate existing conditions such as heart disease.

Not only does the smoke cause health risks to locals, but it can also travel across state lines, affecting people far from the fire's source.

As of today, there are wildfires burning in 11 Western states. Smoke from wildfires in Oregon, Idaho, and Washington have wafted into Canada.

Smoke and dust concerns mark today’s forecast.

Residents should continue to monitor air quality conditions and remain indoors when possible.

The fires and resulting smoke conditions will continue to affect the West for weeks to come.