The smoke in the Uintah Basin can be seen and its adverse effects on health can be felt. The Utah Department of Environmental Quality has provided multiple reports and warnings that “Unhealthy” levels of smoke are moving from the Pole Creek Fire in Spanish Fork Canyon and heading straight for the Uintah Basin. The Bald Mountain Fire is also sending smoke this way and stiff winds are contributing to the issue. The plume of smoke is reaching as far as Canada. The DEQ is urging the public to take it easy as smoke from the fires are causing high concentrations of particulates in some areas. “If smoke becomes thick,” shares the DEQ, “residents with existing heart or lung conditions should reduce physical exertion and outdoor activity.” Smoke could also be coming from fires in neighboring northwest Colorado.
