Wildfire smoke air quality update for Missoula County

The air quality improved even more overnight, and most sensors are showing Good air quality this morning. It is a great time to be active outside for most people. Keep an eye out for potential pockets of poor air quality in the evening due to localized impacts from the Moose Mountain Fire, especially on the western side of Missoula County. The latest forecasts show improved air quality conditions continuing through at least Monday for most areas. Southwest flow could bring smoke from fires in Oregon, Idaho, and Washington back to the region later this week.

Current air quality conditions from the EPA Fire and Smoke Map are based on data as of 8:45 a.m. on Sunday, August 16.

Many areas in Montana have received beneficial rainfall over the last several days that has helped moderate fire conditions at local fires like the Moose Mountain Fire, Silvertip Fire, Black Bear Fire, Moose Fire, Sand Creek Fire, and Bobcat Lakes Fire. Smoke impacts from these fires have decreased and remain localized to nearby communities. Of these fires, the Moose Mountain Fire has the greatest potential to impact nearby areas of Missoula County with some smoke as fire conditions become more active in the afternoons and evenings. Firefighters have also responded to several new fire starts from recent lightning across the region, and more thunderstorms are in the forecast, so new local fires could develop.

The HRRR Model Near-Surface Smoke forecast for 6 p.m. on Monday, August 17 shows Good to Moderate air quality across Missoula County with some smoke impacts from the Moose Mountain Fire.

Remember that air quality can change rapidly, so it is always a good idea to check the latest air quality conditions at Fire.AirNow.Gov. Even when the air quality is Moderate, unusually sensitive people should consider making outdoor activities shorter and less intense. Watch for symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath. These are signs to take it easier.

If air quality worsens, creating a clean indoor air space is the best way to reduce exposure to smoke. You can either use a portable air cleaner with a HEPA filter or a MERV 13+ furnace filter attached to a box fan. For more information about ways to keep smoke out of your living space and reduce exposure to smoke, explore the resources at MontanaWildfireSmoke.org.