Custer County air advisory is lifted

Update: 8/9/16 10:25 a.m.

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has lifted an air quality caution for Custer County. With lessening impacts from regional wildfires, air quality is expected to remain in the the “moderate” to “good” category.

However, IDEQ said people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution may experience health impacts and should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion.

A red flag warning remains in effect until 9 p.m. Wednesday.

Open burning restrictions have also been lifted, but people should consult with the National Weather Service, land management and other fire safety agencies before conducting any burning.

Original Story:

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality is extending an air quality advisory for Custer County.

Because of significant wildfire smoke, Custer County is experiencing degraded air quality. It is currently rated as “unhealthy for sensitive groups”, including those with heart and lung disease, older adults and children.

When air quality is “unhealthy”, sensitive persons may experience health effects and should limit prolonged or heavy exertion and limit their time outdoors.

Due to the forecast, all open burning is prohibited by the Idaho DEQ.