Colorado Springs Air Quality Index Remains Moderate Amid Haze from Western Slope Fires

Strategic Insights -

The ongoing haze in Colorado Springs, caused by fires in the Western Slope, continues to affect the area's air quality. According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, the city's air quality index is 87, which falls under the "moderate" category. This score indicates that while the air is generally acceptable, there may be risks for individuals with respiratory issues or sensitivities to pollutants. The Environmental Protection Agency notes that "moderate" air quality can pose challenges for those who have difficulty with outdoor exertion.

Key Takeaways:

  • The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment reports that Colorado Springs' air quality index is 87, categorized as "moderate".
  • The scores of 101 or higher are considered "unhealthy for sensitive groups", and Colorado Springs is 14 points away from reaching this threshold.
  • The Elk fire, Lee fire, and Turner Gulch fire in Rio Blanco and Mesa counties have burned over 165,000 acres combined, with the Lee fire alone consuming 123,222 acres.
  • Governor Jared Polis declared a disaster emergency for two new wildfires on Wednesday night, highlighting the severity of the situation.
  • Scott Landes, a lead meteorologist at the department, explains that Colorado Springs has one of the highest indexes in the state due to the lack of monitors in more rural areas.
  • El Paso County has three air-quality monitoring points in Colorado College, the Air Force Academy, and Manitou Springs.
  • Landes notes that areas in much worse condition are not measured in Colorado Springs, but rather via satellite imagery and atmospheric models.
  • Colorado Springs is not projected to be issued an air-quality health advisory, with smoke levels gradually decreasing and upper-level transport winds not aligning over the next 24 hours.
  • Those with breathing conditions are advised to monitor the air-quality index and assess personal safety for outdoor activities.
  • Seven Colorado Springs firefighters have deployed to battle the blazes in western Colorado.

Statistics:

  • The air quality index in Colorado Springs is 87, categorized as "moderate".
  • The Lee fire has burned 123,222 acres.
  • Over 165,000 acres have burned in the Elk fire, Lee fire, and Turner Gulch fire combined.
  • Colorado Springs is 14 points away from reaching the "unhealthy for sensitive groups" threshold of 101 or higher.

Sources:

  • Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
  • Environmental Protection Agency
  • InciWeb - Government natural disaster tracker
  • The Gazette (Colorado Springs, Colo.)