RENO, NV - Washoe County Health District monitors have detected unhealthy levels of fine particulates (PM2.5) in Reno and Sparks.
Smoke from fires in California is causing air quality to deterioriate in Reno and Sparks. The district says we are in the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" range, meaning people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion. Generally, during smoky conditions, reduce activity and stay indoors with the windows close.
From the National Weather Service:
"While this rain has brought some much needed moisture, it has also created a stable layer that is helping to trap pollutants near the surface. There have been reports of a smoky smell mainly south of Reno. This can be attributed to some fires south of the Reno Metro area around Yosemite. Upper level wind flow has brought the smoke north while rain and stability duct it towards the surface. The unusual part is that rain would usually cleanse the air of these particulates, but this meteorological set-up is actually allowing for an increase."
This air quality update was issued by the Washoe County Health District, Air Quality Management Division. Visit www.OurCleanAir.com for more information.