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Pueblo Air Quality Improving, Smoke Relief Expected
5 Jul
Summary
- Easterly winds are calming, reducing wildfire smoke over Pueblo.
- Air quality has improved to moderate levels in most of Pueblo.
- Dry thunderstorms may bring new fire risks before rain relief.
Pueblo residents may experience improved air quality over the Fourth of July weekend due to calming winds from the Aspen Acres Fire. Easterly winds reduced to 5-15 mph on Saturday morning, lessening the fresh smoke reaching the city. Air quality in most of eastern Pueblo improved to moderate levels by Saturday afternoon, although some areas southwest of Pueblo West remained at unhealthy levels.
Further relief is anticipated for Sunday, but dry thunderstorms are expected Saturday evening, posing a risk of new fire starts. These storms could bring lightning without significant rain, potentially igniting new blazes. Wet thunderstorms predicted for Sunday are expected to provide much-needed rain for firefighters and calm fire and smoke activity.
The Pueblo Department of Public Health and Environment had previously issued advisories, warning that Aspen Acres Fire smoke could intermittently spike pollution. They recommended staying indoors with windows closed and turning off swamp coolers if smoke becomes thick, particularly for individuals with heart disease, respiratory illnesses, the very young, and the elderly. Even without smelling smoke, air can be polluted by harmful particulate matter (PM 2.5), which poses health risks. Residents can check current air quality on websites like AirNow and PurpleAir.
