A Stage I Air Pollution Alert is in effect for Missoula County, meaning that no visible emissions are allowed from any wood stove or other solid fuel burning devices without a valid Stage I Air Alert Permit.

Local health officials say that in Missoula and Frenchtown the cumulative exposure Sunday was “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups.” Meanwhile, the air quality was reported as “Unhealthy” in Hamilton.

Strong inversions and poor dispersion is expected to persist through overnight, but the Stage I Air Alert may not last past Monday if evening breezes on Monday clear the smoke out.” according to Ben Schmidt with the Missoula City-County Health Department.

People with heart or lung disease, smokers, children and the elderly should limit prolonged exertion while folks with asthma should follow their asthma management plan. Anyone experiencing signs of respiratory distress should talk to their health care provider.

via Air Pollution Alert in effect for Missoula | KPAX.com | Missoula, Montana.