Western Wildfires Causing Air Quality Concern

CALIFORNIA - Wildfires in the western U.S. continue to burn, impacting air quality across much of the country. The Garnet Fire, which began in the Sierra National Forest on August 24, 2025, has prompted a partial forest closure near the fire.

According to the Fresno County Sheriff's Department, some evacuation orders are in effect in the area. The fire has now burned over 41,000 acres and is approximately 14% contained as of Sunday evening.

As of Sunday evening, a dense smoke advisory has now been issued through Monday morning, with visibility reduced to 1 mile or less due to heavy smoke. Air quality alerts are also in effect.

Our smoke forecast shows the heaviest smoke will develop overnight and persist into Monday morning.

Northwest

Fires burning in the Northwest and in British Columbia, Canada, have worsened air quality across the region and, over the past weekend, even reached the central U.S. If you’ve noticed hazy skies, the smoke from these wildfires is the cause.

When air quality alerts are issued, people with respiratory sensitivities should limit time outdoors. Wearing N95 masks may also be advisable.

On Monday, if you live in the High Plains, you may notice the hazy skies due to smoke being pulled in by the jet stream.

Regarding wildfire risk, a dry thunderstorm outlook remains in effect through Monday for the Northwest. While some rain is possible, dry surface conditions may reduce rainfall amounts. Lightning, however, could still spark new fires.

For more on poor air quality and wildfire danger out west, join us on WeatherNation at :50 past the hour for your West regional forecast.