Air quality warning issued for South Dakota

An air quality advisory remains in effect for areas across South Dakota where smoke from wildfires has settled in Canada. The warning is valid until Tuesday (May 14, 2024) or until conditions improve.

The South Dakota Departments of Agriculture, Natural Resources and Health say the smoke may lead to poor visibility and increased particulate matter pollution at levels that could be a public health concern.

Data for the Pierre/Fort Pierre area as of 8 a.m. CT showed air quality to be in the “moderate” category. By definition, this means, “Air quality is acceptable.” However, some people may be at risk, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.” Similar levels were also recorded in the Vermillion and Black Hawk areas.

Also as of 8 a.m. CT, Brookings was in the “unhealthy” category, while Watertown and the Wind Cave area were in the “unhealthy for sensitive groups” category. Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, Rapid City and the inland Badlands were near the border between the “moderate” and “unhealthy for sensitive groups” categories.

DOH and DANR say all people should avoid excessive physical exertion and minimize outdoor activities during periods of poor visibility due to wildfire smoke. People are also encouraged to keep the air clean indoors by closing windows and doors.

Air pollution can worsen heart and cardiovascular diseases, as well as lung diseases such as asthma and COPD. When air quality is unhealthy, people with these conditions may experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, cough or fatigue. Anyone concerned about health effects of poor air quality should contact their doctor.

Individuals can track real-time PM2.5 concentrations by visiting the DANR website at https://denravweb.sd.gov/AirVision/default.aspx or the EPA website at https://www.airnow.gov/ visit.

For an explanation of the air quality index values ​​and their meaning, see https://danr.sd.gov/Environment/AirQuality/AirMonitoring/RealTimeData.aspx.

For a user-friendly guide to outdoor activities and air quality prepared by the EPA and CDC, visit https://www.airnow.gov/sites/default/files/2018-09/air-quality-and-outdoor -activity-Guidance-2014.pdf.