The sunrises amid wildfire smoke and haze on July 25, (Brian Neben, Central Nebraska Today)
KEARNEY — Air quality across the Tri-Cities has decreased to moderate conditions, while areas to the west have seen larger drops, due to the persistent Canadian wildfire smoke over the region.
As of July 23, there were 954 active wildfires in Canada with 1.8 million hectares of land burned from the start of the year. Most the fires are burning in northern Alberta, Saskatchewan and southern British Columbia.
According to the Air Quality Index, the current conditions across the Tri-Cities are considered moderate. This means unusually sensitive people should reduce their outdoor activity and go inside if they have symptoms.
To the west, Lexington, Broken Bow and McCook’s air quality is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups.
At risk groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, pregnant women and those who spend a lot of time outdoors.
The general public is advised to keep outdoor activities light and short.