Lightning caused fires may mean air quality concerns on the North Coast

Del Norte County, Ca., (KIEM)- As fire activity picks up through Oregon and Northern California, air quality in portions of Del Norte, Humboldt and Trinity counties may be impacted. Predicted north east winds may push smoke down from the Natchez and Hendricks Fires, but air quality is still expected to be good to moderate. Still, the North Coast Air Quality Management District wants locals to understand the air quality index.

The Natchez Fire is one potential cause of smoke impacts on the North Coast. Lightning caused, the 767 acre fire is burning about 15 miles southeast of Cave Junction, Oregon right on the state line. It has now moved over the Ridgeline onto the Klamath National forest in Del Norte county. More than 230 fire fighters are site battling the blaze and active fire behavior was expected throughout the day today.