More smoke coming to northern Utah from Idaho wildfires

SALT LAKE CITY — Another wave of Idaho’s wildfire smoke will be moving across northern Utah early Wednesday morning.

National Weather Service Meteorologist Darren Van Cleave said a cold front associated with today’s dry thunderstorms will help that smoke move in on Tuesday night. 

Models show most of the smoke will start moving in early Wednesday morning and afternoon.

KSL Meteorologist Matt Johnson said the air quality will likely drop to moderate or unhealthy for sensitive groups tonight and tomorrow.

What do those air quality levels mean?

Various wildfires in the western U.S. have affected Utah’s air quality on and off over the summer.

The Utah Department of Environmental Quality provides recommendations for activities depending on air quality.

Moderate air quality means most people can be active outside. However, the DEQ said unusually sensitive people should consider reducing outdoor exertion if the air quality is moderate.

When the air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, people in those groups can be outside but should stay away from intense activities.

Stay updated on Utah’s air quality on KSL’s Air Quality Network.

Related:

• Utah air quality is deteriorating and could get worse
• University of Utah helping schools achieve better indoor air quality
• Study says inhaling wildfire smoke can increase risk of dementia