South Sioux City, Neb. – Smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to push air quality in parts of Nebraska into the “unhealthy” range by 3 p.m. Tuesday, prompting health officials to issue an air quality alert for over 20 eastern counties, including South Sioux City and Lincoln.
According to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of Environment and Energy, the alert runs from 3 p.m. Tuesday through 12 a.m. Wednesday. Fine particulate matter (PM 2.5) levels are forecast to reach “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” to “Unhealthy” on the Air Quality Index, especially in areas like Omaha, Beatrice, and Blair.
Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, outdoor workers, and people with heart or lung conditions are urged to limit outdoor activity and avoid prolonged exertion. When levels reach the red zone, everyone is advised to stay indoors or reschedule physical activity.
Officials warn that wind shifts may worsen smoke conditions unexpectedly. Monitors in cities including Lincoln, Grand Island, and Scottsbluff will continue to track air quality.
Residents can stay updated via the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy’s wildfire impact page.
The air quality alert remains in effect through midnight Tuesday. Additional advisories may be issued depending on smoke movement.
