Pacific Northwest Fires Bringing Down the Air Quality

Conditions have been real dry out west. We've been tracking some major fires across the state of Oregon. With multiple fires burning in the same general region, they form complexes. We have two large ones we're tracking now with low containment.

One of the biggest issues we're going to track with these fires will be the smoke. Unfortunately, upper level winds will send this moderate to even dense smoke across the Pacific Northwest.

This smoke is expected to lower the air quality considerably across the area. As of Tuesday morning, Burns, Baker City and Boise all under that unhealthy AQI (Air Quality Index) category.

Dry conditions are expected to persist. Unfortunately, we have enough moisture to wring out a thunderstorm or two. This could pose an issue as there is a likelihood of lightning reaching the ground and causing more fires. Dry thunderstorm outlooks will be in place throughout Tuesday.

Stay tuned to the forecast here on WeatherNation at :50 past the hour for your full Western U.S. breakdown!