If you notice a yellow tint to the sky or a hazy look to the sky later this evening or tomorrow, it could be from fires burning in Canada. According to the National Weather Service, smoke from wildfires burning in Canada is drifting south into the eastern United States, including East Tennessee.
Cooler air flowing from the north is carrying elevated levels of wildfire smoke into the region. The haze could be noticeable in our area for the next 24-48 hours. Changes in the weather pattern should clear the skies soon. Winds are forecast to shift out of the south by late Tuesday, and an approaching cold front is expected to move through by Wednesday. That shift in conditions will help push the smoke back north, improving air quality and visibility.
Unlike the widespread smoke that blanketed much of the country in June and July of 2023, the current smoke levels are significantly lower. Most of the particles remain high in the atmosphere, resulting in vibrant sunrises and sunsets, and a diffuse haze during the day. In contrast, the 2023 event brought smoke thick enough to obscure mountain views across much of East Tennessee.
While this latest smoke event is less intense locally, northern U.S. states and cities are seeing more significant effects. The smoke is the result of over 160 active wildfires burning across Canada, which have already consumed more than 1.6 million acres. For comparison, Canada’s historic 2023 wildfire season saw over 45 million acres burned, leading to hazardous air quality across the U.S. for multiple days.
Residents are advised that while air quality in Greeneville is not expected to reach unhealthy levels, those with respiratory conditions may still want to limit prolonged outdoor activity until the haze clears.
