Lincoln, Neb. – Residents across eastern and central Nebraska, including Omaha, Lincoln, and Norfolk, may face unhealthy air conditions starting early Thursday due to smoke drifting in from Canadian wildfires.
According to the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, an Air Quality Alert is in effect from 6 a.m. Thursday until 12 p.m. Friday. The Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to reach the orange category—“Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups”—as fine particulate matter (PM2.5) increases in the atmosphere.
Communities affected include Douglas, Lancaster, Dodge, Platte, Sarpy, and Washington counties, where residents with heart or lung conditions, children, the elderly, and pregnant individuals are urged to limit prolonged outdoor activity. Outdoor workers and schools may also need to adjust schedules or limit exertion.
Smoke concentrations vary based on wind and fire activity. State health officials recommend staying indoors, running air purifiers if available, and avoiding intense physical activity outdoors during peak smoke hours.
Air monitors in Omaha, Lincoln, and Beatrice will continue to track real-time conditions. Additional advisories may be issued if smoke lingers or worsens through the weekend.
