Lincoln under air quality alert amid wildfires

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN)– Northeast and east-central Nebraska are under an air quality alert due to Canadian wildfire smoke through 10:00pm Saturday.

The haze is visible across Lincoln Saturday.

The air quality index for Lincoln and surrounding areas is a Moderate to Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups due to the smoke.

If you are sensitive to air quality changes, it is recommended to try and limit time spent outdoors.

Heavy smoke from large wildfires in Canada will be carried south into north central and eastern Nebraska over the next few days. This is likely to result in periods of poor air quality during the weekend and continue into Monday. During that time, it is possible that levels of smoke may be unhealthy for everyone. Smoke levels may fluctuate due to weather patterns and smoke production by the fires. 

“Smoke from wildfires can cause asthma attacks, worsen chronic bronchitis and emphysema, and cause angina (chest pain) in some people with heart disease,” said Gary Bergstrom, Air Quality Program Supervisor with LLCHD.  “Those most at risk are youth, older adults and sensitive individuals with respiratory or heart conditions.” 

People at risk should avoid extensive physical activity outdoors or remain indoors with windows and doors closed. People heading outdoors should reduce strenuous physical activity, take plenty of breaks and watch for symptoms such as coughing, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, or chest pain. People with asthma should follow their asthma action plans and have quick relief medicine readily available.

Those who experience health effects should contact a medical care provider. Bergstrom said that even a few hours of exposure to high levels of particle pollution may affect those with underlying health conditions. 

Residents are encouraged to check the Air Quality Index (AQI) for the next several days before heading outdoors to stay informed of ongoing air quality conditions. AQI levels in the orange category can cause health problems for sensitive populations, while AQI levels in the red category can cause health problems for everyone.

The LLCHD monitors air quality 24 hours a day. The AQI is available at airnow.gov and is updated hourly. The Environmental Protection Agency also provides the AirNow and SmokeSense smart phone apps to help people stay informed of the AQI in their area.     

For more information on LLCHD, visit lincoln.ne.gov/health.