Haze and smoky conditions in southern NM likely due to fires in the Pacific Northwest, Idaho and Montana

Current information about smoke:  Latest smoke info in google earth format

Example of product is shown below (screen capture image for 9/7/17):

Lincoln National Forest offices have been fielding calls over the past few days regarding smoke/haze in the area.  There are no wildfires on the Lincoln National Forest, and the last day of prescribed fire activities (ignitions) on the Smokey Bear Ranger District occurred on August 20th.

This morning (9/6/17), Rita Bates, Planning Section Chief at the NM Environment Dept. Air Quality Bureau said, “The source of the smoke and haze is most likely from the fires in the Pacific Northwest, Idaho and Montana.  The easterly winds that we are currently experiencing may also be contributing to the smoky skies in NM.”

Bates also provided a link that may be helpful:

“Heavy smoke is being tracked in 12 states“…

http://wildfiretoday.com/2017/09/04/heavy-smoke-continues-to-spread-across-northwest-and-north-central-us/

Additional important information:  

Smoke can hurt your eyes, irritate your respiratory system, and intensify chronic heart and lung problems. Your eyes are your best tools to determine if it’s safe to be outside. If visibility is over 5 miles, the air quality is generally good. If you are having health effects from smoke exposure then take extra care to stay inside or get to an area with better air quality. You should also see your doctor or healthcare professional as needed. For information on air quality and protecting your health, and to find guidance on distances and visibility, please visit https://nmtracking.org/fire.