Smoke from two major wildfires in Northern California is impacting air quality in Lassen and Modoc counties, with effects expected to persist through at least mid-week.
The Green Fire, located north of Shasta Lake, has burned 13,366 acres and is currently 5% contained. Meanwhile, the Butler Fire, which is uncontained along the Salmon River, has scorched 8,156 acres. Both fires are generating significant smoke that is being directed eastward by prevailing winds.
Officials from the Shasta County Air Quality Management District are advising residents to remain indoors if smoke or ash is visible and to limit outdoor activities, especially for vulnerable populations such as children, seniors, and individuals with heart or lung conditions. Forecasts indicate that the smoke plume may drift into northeastern Shasta, Lassen, and Modoc counties as westerly winds persist.
Air quality is anticipated to fluctuate between “moderate” to “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” depending on wind patterns and ongoing fire activity. Residents are encouraged to keep windows closed, use air conditioners in recirculate mode, and stay updated on official air quality alerts.
Fire crews are actively working to contain both fires. Helicopters and watercraft are being deployed on the Green Fire to combat spot fires on challenging terrain. The Butler Fire poses ongoing difficulties due to high temperatures and wind gusts reaching up to 25 mph, although structure-protection lines have remained intact for two consecutive days.
This smoke event adds to the worries for rural counties that are still in recovery from previous wildfire seasons. Health officials recommend utilizing air purifiers when feasible and consulting real-time air quality maps for the latest local conditions.
