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Colorado Chokes on Utah Wildfire Smoke
28 Jun
Summary
- Wildfire smoke blankets western and northwestern Colorado.
- Reduced visibility impacts roadways, especially near Fruita.
- Front Range may see hazy skies by Sunday afternoon.
Wildfires burning in eastern Utah and western Colorado are generating significant smoke plumes that are now impacting air quality across western parts of the state. Communities from Telluride to Grand Junction and Steamboat Springs are facing hazy skies and reduced visibility due to the drifting smoke. Drivers in affected areas, especially along the I-70 corridor near Fruita, are advised to exercise extreme caution due to potentially low visibility on highways.
The smoke poses health risks, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with pre-existing respiratory or heart conditions. Health advisories recommend keeping windows and doors closed during periods of heavy smoke.
Forecast models predict the smoke will continue its eastward trajectory. By Sunday afternoon and evening, an increase in heavier smoke is anticipated across the Front Range, which could lead to hazy conditions and compromised air quality in the Denver metropolitan area.
