Health department issues air quality advisory in Lancaster County

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — An air quality advisory was issued in Lancaster County on Tuesday as smoke drifted in from the south.

There is widespread controlled burning in the Flint Hills region of Kansas and Oklahoma, according to the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department.

Gary Bergstrom, the department’s air quality section supervisor, said the smoke in Lincoln may reach levels that are unhealthy for some people.

Those with asthma, bronchitis, emphysema and heart disease could be at risk.

If you experience coughing, shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeat or chest pain, you should contact your medical provider.

Bergstrom said the highest potential for negative impacts from the smoke will be from late Tuesday through Wednesday morning.

As of 10 p.m., the Air Quality Index in Lincoln was in the unhealthy category, meaning everyone should take precautions and reduce outdoor activity.