Heavy rain today and tonight should cut through the smoke but creates its own hazards
Heavy smoke pushing south of Rhode Island on Friday, under a northwest flow, will recirculate back into the area on Saturday under a southwest flow. Some improvements in air quality are expected Sunday.
What to Expect:
- Poor
air quality
- Reduced
visibility
- Smell
of smoke
Health Advisory:
Wildfire smoke contains tiny particles (and other
pollutants) that can irritate eyes, nose, throat, and lungs. It can also worsen
symptoms in individuals with asthma, lung, or heart conditions. To reduce
exposure, the following precautions are recommended for those with asthma,
lung, or heart conditions:
- Stay
indoors with windows closed when fine particle levels are high.
- If
running air conditioning, turn off any fresh intake options so as not to
draw in outside air.
- Limit
outdoor activity; choose less strenuous activities and reduce time spent
outdoors
- Wear a
properly fitted N95 mask when outside
- While
driving, set the car’s air system to “recirculate”
- Learn
how to create a
clean air room in your home using a box fan
- Use
high-efficiency (HEPA) air filters in heating and cooling systems
Stay Informed:
- www.airnow.gov or download
the AirNOW app
- www.dem.ri.gov/airquality.
The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)’s Fire
and Smoke Map has detailed information on current air quality
readings, including DEM and RI Department of Health (RIDOH) air quality
monitors, along with the network of regional low-cost sensors.
For more information on DEM programs and initiatives,
visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow DEM on Facebook, Twitter/X (@RhodeIslandDEM), or Instagram (@rhodeisland.dem) for timely updates. Sign up here to receive the latest
press releases, news, and events from DEM's Public Affairs Office to your
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