TCEQ continues to monitor statewide air quality

The Texas Commission on Environmental Quality's senior meteorologist has indicated that are a few large smoke plumes evident on satellite imagery this morning in East and Central Texas, and PM2.5 measurements show widespread but locally variable amounts of lingering smoke from yesterday over much of the eastern half of the state.  Airport visibility reports indicate thick smoke at Longview and Crockett this morning, apparently associated with large smoke plumes seen on satellite imagery. 

Smoke is likely to be heavy near and downwind of the large fires, but levels should generally be in the "moderate" range on the Air Quality Index in most areas away from the most intense smoke plumes.

The TCEQ continues to urge residents to use their best judgment when near heavy smoke.  If intense smoke can be seen and smelled, people should use common sense in evacuating areas where smoke levels are high.

These levels of smoke would not be expected to cause any long-term health effects.  It can aggravate allergies and asthma, and people with respiratory diseases may have increased symptoms.

Smoke contains small particles and gasses that irritate the eyes and lungs.  Exposures to high concentrations of these particles can cause persistent cough, phlegm, wheezing, and difficulty breathing.  Children, older adults, and people with pre-existing heart or lung disease are more susceptible to lower levels of smoke than healthy adults.

More information can be found on the TCEQ's Smoke, Dust and Soot Web page.

For the most current information on the Texas wildfire situation,
visit the Texas Forest Service website.