Boise, Idaho – Clear skies in southern Idaho will be short-lived as wildfire smoke is expected to return Sunday, bringing another round of hazy conditions across much of the state.
According to the National Weather Service in Boise, most of the incoming smoke is drifting north from the Emigrant fire in central Oregon, with additional contributions from fires in Washington, central Idaho, and northern Nevada. Air quality monitors in Boise, Twin Falls, and Idaho Falls could show worsening conditions as smoke settles back into valleys through the day.
Residents in Treasure Valley may notice thicker haze by Sunday morning, while eastern communities near Idaho Falls and Pocatello could see reduced visibility into Sunday evening. Health officials urge those with asthma, heart conditions, or other respiratory concerns to limit time outdoors, especially during peak afternoon hours when smoke concentrations are highest.
Drivers on Interstate 84 and U.S. Highway 20 should also be alert for sudden reductions in visibility. The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality has advised residents to use air purifiers indoors, keep windows closed, and avoid strenuous outdoor activity until conditions improve.
Hazy skies are expected to linger through early next week, with additional smoke surges possible depending on wildfire activity across the region.
