A smoky haze has settled into Southern Utah as 20 wildfires burn throughout Idaho, causing unhealthy air quality.
The Wapiti fire started during a lightning storm in late July. This is one of 63 large active wildfires burning throughout the west, including 15 large wildfires uncontained in parts of California, Oregon and Idaho that have burned through nearly 1.9 million acres. The fire is only 12% contained and has consumed more than 120,000 acres.
“My roommate and I stepped outside and were shocked by the smoke haze in the air. I could not see any fires nearby so I was confused and nervous,“ says freshman Brylee Brown. “I have asthma and smoke affects my breathing, so I was concerned. I found out that the fires were in Idaho and I hope they get under control.”
The National Interagency Fire center has 245 soldiers from the 14th Brigade Engineer Battalion and the 1st Battalion deployed in support of wildland fire operations in the Boise National Forest.
At the national level, 71 active wildfires have burned well over 2.2 million acres. Currently 532 crews, 1,371 engines, 151 helicopters, 24,163 wildland firefighters and support personnel are assigned to incidents.
The haze is still affecting the air quality in Southern Utah, but conditions are expected to clear up.
Author: Natalie Anderson
Photo courtesy of Cody Blowers/St George News
Editor: Anna Mower
outdoors@suunews.net
