MISSOULA — High pressure will continue to pump in wildfire smoke, specifically from California Monday.
The National Weather Service reports an Air Quality Alert is in effect until further notice for several Montana counties including Missoula and Ravalli.
An Air Quality Alert is issued when particulates have been trending upwards and exceed the 24-hour national ambient air quality standard.
As of 9:15 am, air quality is "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" in Hamilton and Frenchtown and "Moderate" in Missoula and Seeley Lake.
Northwest Montana is seeing much better air quality this morning, however, smoke and haze will be on the increase as we move throughout the day.
As high pressure remains in place throughout the week, smoke and haze can be expected each day through at least Friday.
State and local health officials recommend people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly and children should limit prolonged exertion.
Click here to view the latest air quality readings from across Montana.
