In recent days, wildfire smoke from blazes in the Pacific Northwest and Canada has significantly impacted air quality in Denver, Colorado. This has resulted in decreased visibility and unhealthy air conditions, particularly in the Denver metro area. The combination of wildfire smoke and high ground-level ozone has led to the worst Front Range pollution experienced so far this summer. Residents have been advised to limit their outdoor activities, especially sensitive groups such as children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with underlying lung or cardiovascular conditions. The situation is expected to persist through Tuesday before gradually improving on Thursday and Friday. To monitor air quality in their area, residents can use the Environmental Protection Agency's Fire and Smoke map.
According to recent research, up to 55,710 premature deaths were attributable to wildfire-related PM2.5 particles in the air between 2008 and 2018 in California. High-risk groups include pregnant women, children, adults with asthma and COPD, older people with lung and cardiovascular risks, and outdoor workers. To protect themselves from the health risks associated with wildfire smoke exposure, these high-risk groups are advised to stay indoors and use a clean room with a HEPA air cleaner running.
Experts suggest that individuals should keep an eye on air quality levels and avoid outdoor workouts or keep them short when conditions are poor. Those who are more sensitive to the effects of smoke should be particularly cautious, including children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with underlying lung or cardiovascular conditions such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), or heart disease. The increasing frequency and severity of wildfires due to climate change have led to longer wildfire seasons and the impact of smoke on more regions in the United States.
