HFD issues warning after smoke stretches across Houston area; how to take care of yourself, your loved ones

Pictures of haze and smoke in Houston (KPRC)

HOUSTON – Air quality in Houston has reached unhealthy levels after a cold front pushed smoke from an ongoing wildfire in West Texas, according to the Houston Fire Department.

HFD said in a statement that the smoke is currently not a threat in Houston.

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The wildfire is occurring at the Eastland Complex, 120 miles west of Dallas, where over 40,000 acres have burned. A cold front picked up the smoke and steered it through the Houston area.

Due to the winds, Houstonians may see smoke and/or ash in the area, HFD said.

You can check the current air quality level in Houston here.

How to take care of yourself, your loved ones

If you or a loved one have the following respiratory or other issues below, consider limiting exposure:

  • Asthma
  • COPD
  • Chronic bronchitis
  • Emphysema
  • Heart disease

People who are over 65, children, or pregnant women should also take precautions and limit outdoor exposure. Only call 911 in case of a life-threatening emergency.

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About the Author:

A graduate of the University of Houston-Downtown, Ana moved to H-Town from sunny southern California in 2015. In 2020, she joined the KPRC 2 digital team as an intern. Ana is a self-proclaimed coffee connoisseur, a catmom of 3, and an aquarium enthusiast. In her spare time, she's an avid video gamer and loves to travel.