UPDATE 9:40 p.m. Thursday: The National Weather Service in Hastings, Neb., had dropped the special weather statement for Jewell and Mitchell counties.
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The National Weather Service in Hastings, Neb., has issued the following special weather statement for Jewell and Mitchell counties.
Thick smoke from Canadian wildfires will result in reduced visibility to less than 2 miles at times later this evening into Friday morning across portions of north-central Kansas. The smoke will also result in moderate to unhealthy air quality.
During Moderate conditions, those who are unusually sensitive to particle pollution should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion.
During Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups conditions, members of sensitive groups are advised to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion and avoid intense outdoor activities. Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, and children.
During Unhealthy conditions, some members of the general public may experience health effects and members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. All are advised to avoid prolonged or heavy exertion and consider moving activities indoors or rescheduling.
The worst of the smoke and air quality issues across north central Kansas are expected between 7 PM CDT this evening and 11 AM CDT Friday morning.