Northern Colorado Residents Wake Up to Smoke: What’s Causing the Poor Air Quality?

What is the deal with all of this smoke in Northern Colorado? That is a question that many of us had on September 4 as we were returning home from work.

Wildfire Concerns in Loveland and Fort Collins

When it is hot, smells like smoke, and you can not see the sky, we immediately think that it is due to a wildfire.

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When I left work yesterday in Windsor, I was worried that there was a fire near us in Northern Colorado. I had the same feeling in my gut as I did when the Alexander Mountain Fire burned nearly 10,000 acres in Loveland last year.

Smoke Impacting Northern Colorado Residents

The good news is that there are no major wildfires near Northern Colorado at this point. The bad news is that other wildfires and cold fronts are the reason why the air quality is low, and it feels like a wildfire is nearby.

Cold Fronts Bring Smoke From the Pacific Northwest to Northern Colorado

A cold front brought cooler temperatures to Northern Colorado on Thursday.

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However, that cold front also invited wildfire smoke. 9News says the majority of that smoke is coming from the Pacific Northwest and Western Canada.

Air Quality Action Day for Colorado Counties

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has issued an action day for these Colorado counties.

• Larimer County
• Weld County
• Boulder County
• Denver County
• Adams County
• Arapahoe County
• Douglas County
• Jefferson County

That action day is set to expire on September 5 at 4:00 p.m.

How Northern Colorado Residents Can Protect Themselves During Poor Air Quality

At the time of writing, the air quality in these Colorado counties is considered poor. Try to limit your time outside today.