DEQ issues Health Advisory, Burn Ban

Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) issued a Burn Ban and Health Advisory this morning at 9 for Clearwater, Latah, Lewis, Nez Perce and Idaho counties due to air quality in the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" range, according to a news release.

Ignition of any new fire is prohibited by Idaho State Air Quality Rules. The restrictions will be in effect through 9 a.m. Wednesday when they will be revaluated and may be extended. Smoke from forest fires to the south and west is cited as the cause of the action. Multiple large fire complexes are burning in Washington and Idaho. High pressure over the northwest has resulted in the smoke stagnating in the region. Depending on wind direction and speed, as well as activity of the fire complexes, conditions may either worsen or improve through the day, the release said.

DEQ said the past 24-hour average was 113, tonight's forecast is 110 and tomorrow's forecast is also 110. All those are in the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" range.

When the Air Quality Index (AQI) is in the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" range, Active children and adults, and people with lung disease such as asthma, should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors.