Wildfire Smoke Causing Unhealthy Air Quality in Nebraska

Most parts of Nebraska are finally getting a break from the 100-degree temps felt throughout the week, thanks to a cold front pushing into the Cornhusker state from Canada. However, it's also bringing in heavy wildfire smoke.

In some parts of the state, like Douglas County, health officials said the air quality index is currently at unhealthy levels.

Gary Bergstrom, with the Nebraska Department of Environment and Energy, said since the heat is still sticking around today, that could make conditions more stressful on your body throughout the day.

"It could be just more strain on the body, you know, exertion. If it leads to heavier breathing, it will exacerbate the air pollution problems."

Bergstrom says people with air sensitivities could experience difficulty breathing and coughing as the air quality slides.

"If our air quality were to go into the red, which is unhealthy for everyone, then really everyone needs to take those kind of steps -- reducing prolong, heavy outdoor exertion, watch for symptoms, things like that" he said. "Sensitive groups really want to avoid any prolong or heavy exertion outdoors and really should consider, if they can, avoiding any kind of outdoor activity until the air quality improves."

The National Weather Service said the smoke is causing visibility to decrease to as little as two miles in some areas.

You can monitor your local air quality level at AirNow.gov.