Lincoln under health advisory as smoke from Canadian wildfires blows in

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — Canadian wildfire smoke is once again wafting into Nebraska, causing air quality concerns.

The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department issued a health advisory on Thursday.

The smoke could linger in the area for a couple of days, from Thursday night until noon Saturday, according to the health department.

Officials said the air quality could be unhealthy for everyone, but especially children, older adults and those with respiratory or heart conditions.

The smoke could cause asthma attacks, aggravate bronchitis and emphysema and lead to chest pain, the department said.

Those at risk are urged to stay inside if possible. If you need to go out, limit physical activity and take plenty of breaks.

If you have symptoms, call your doctor.

The department also encourages everyone to the check air quality index in Lincoln before going outside. The index is updated every hour.

The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services also issued a smoke advisory for the eastern part of the state.

Other affected areas could include Columbus, Fremont, Norfolk, Omaha and Wayne.

Smoke from Canada also caused air quality problems in Nebraska in May and July.