Air Quality Crisis from Wildfire Smoke

Denver ranked #5 worst globally for wildfire smoke; 10th straight day of alerts (ozone). AMR reports 50% spike in respiratory calls. Smoke advisory expanded to more western slope and mountain communities. Cold front dragging smoke from Wyoming into Front Range. Smoke from distant fires in Washington, Idaho, Utah, Nevada, and Montana also drifting into southern Colorado. All 64 Colorado counties under air quality alert — worst season since 2020. Exposure equivalent to smoking about 7 cigarettes per day. Relief from smoke expected with cooler weather Tuesday. Hazy skies linger over Southern Colorado with elevated fire danger. N95 masks block particulates but not gases – practical tip for smoke protection.