BOISE – Sunday's onslaught of wildfire-caused smoke and haze continues to plague the Treasure Valley.
On Monday, the Idaho Dept. of Environmental Quality issued an Orange/Unhealthy for sensitive groups air quality alert for Tuesday, August 14th.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) was forecast for 140.
The air quality alert includes Ada, Boise, Canyon, Elmore, Gem, Owyhee, Payette and Washington counties.
Officials say the alert means that members of sensitive groups may experience health effects, and also means they are likely to be affected at lower levels of smoke and pollution than the general public. They say people with lung disease, children, older adults, and people who are active outdoors are those most at risk.
In addition, all individuals may want to consider postponing strenuous activities until air quality improves.
The department also recommends that folks limit driving, combine trips and errands, avoid wood stove and fireplace use if possible, and don't burn outdoors.
On Sunday, the Treasure Valley's AQI was 157.
Experts say much of the smoke originated from wildfires in parts of Idaho, Oregon, and California.
For more information, see the Dept. of Environmental Quality website.
