What is causing the poor air quality in Colorado?

The poor air quality in Colorado is being caused by high levels of ground-level ozone and drifting wildfire smoke, particularly from the ongoing Derby fire.

How are the Derby fire and air quality related?

The Derby fire, which has burned over 4,000 acres as of August 23, 2025, is contributing to the poor air quality in Colorado by producing drifting smoke that is exacerbating the pollution levels.

What groups are most at risk from the poor air quality?

The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment has warned that children, older adults, and people with heart or lung conditions are most at risk from the poor air quality and could experience increased respiratory symptoms and breathing discomfort.

Home / Weather / Wildfire Smoke and Ozone Pollution Prompt Air Quality Alerts Across Colorado

Wildfire Smoke and Ozone Pollution Prompt Air Quality Alerts Across Colorado

23 Aug

•

Summary

Air quality warnings issued due to wildfire smoke and ground-level ozone
Pollution levels could harm sensitive groups like children and those with heart/lung conditions
Derby fire has burned over 4,000 acres as of August 23, 2025

Wildfire Smoke and Ozone Pollution Prompt Air Quality Alerts Across Colorado

On August 23, 2025, state and federal agencies in Colorado issued air quality warnings as ground-level ozone and wildfire smoke pushed pollution to concerning levels. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) warned that these conditions could increase respiratory symptoms and breathing discomfort, especially for sensitive groups like children, older adults, and people with heart or lung diseases.

The latest alert came just days after similar warnings prompted by smoke from the Derby fire, which has burned over 4,000 acres as of August 23rd and remains 0% contained. Authorities have urged residents to limit outdoor activity and consider relocating if smoke is making them ill. More than 370 firefighters are currently battling the Derby fire, which was sparked by a lightning strike.

According to the National Weather Service, the poor air quality from ozone and fine particulate matter can trigger coughing, throat irritation, and shortness of breath, even for otherwise healthy individuals. State and federal agencies have advised Colorado residents to stay indoors as much as possible until the air quality improves.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.