...Air Quality Alert in Effect Until 4 PM CDT Friday...

Northerly winds behind a cold front are bringing smoke from
wildfires out west and in Canada into Iowa. Heavy smoke is
expected to arrive early this afternoon in northwest Iowa. The
smoke is expected to travel south and east across the state,
reaching I-80 by around midnight tonight and extending to southern
Iowa by 5 AM Friday. Smoke is expected to remain across much of
the state through much of Friday. During this time, fine particle
levels are expected to be in the Orange AQI category, a level that
is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Fine particle levels
will begin to improve around noon on Friday. By mid-afternoon
Friday, air quality should improve below alert levels statewide.

Sensitive groups include the elderly, those with respiratory or
heart disease and children. The Iowa Department of Natural
Resources recommends that individuals in these sensitive groups
limit prolonged outdoor exertion until air quality conditions
improve.

Keep track of current air quality conditions at fire.airnow.gov

...HEAT ADVISORY REMAINS IN EFFECT UNTIL 7 PM CDT THIS EVENING...

* WHAT...Heat index values up to 108 Thursday afternoon.

* WHERE...Southern Iowa.

* WHEN...From 10 AM this morning to 7 PM CDT Thursday.

* IMPACTS...Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat
illnesses to occur.

PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...

Drink plenty of fluids, stay in an air-conditioned room, stay out
of the sun, and check up on relatives and neighbors. Young
children and pets should never be left unattended in vehicles
under any circumstances.

Take extra precautions if you work or spend time outside. When
possible reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or
evening. Know the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat
stroke. Wear lightweight and loose fitting clothing when
possible. To reduce risk during outdoor work, the Occupational
Safety and Health Administration recommends scheduling frequent
rest breaks in shaded or air conditioned environments. Anyone
overcome by heat should be moved to a cool and shaded location.
Heat stroke is an emergency! Call 9 1 1.

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