Residents of northeast Montana can expect hazy skies to return over the next couple of days as wildfire smoke drifts back into the region.
The National Weather Service is forecasting hazy conditions for Glasgow today and Friday as smoke from large wildfires burning across the Pacific Northwest and parts of Montana moves into the area on shifting winds.
While widespread unhealthy air quality is not currently forecast for Glasgow, smoke concentrations can change quickly depending on wind direction and fire activity. People with asthma, heart or lung disease, older adults and young children should consider limiting prolonged outdoor activity if smoke becomes more noticeable or air quality deteriorates.
The National Interagency Fire Center reports wildfire activity remains above the 10-year average, with numerous large fires burning across the western United States, including several in Montana. Smoke from those fires has been affecting communities across much of the Northern Rockies and northern Plains.
Forecasters say Glasgow should see highs in the 80s through Friday before temperatures climb back into the 90s over the weekend. The combination of hot, dry weather and active wildfires means smoky conditions could continue to come and go over the coming days.
Residents can monitor current air quality conditions by visiting Montana's "Today's Air" website or the EPA's Fire and Smoke Map before spending extended time outdoors.