National Weather Service explains what residents can expect with air quality this week

EUREKA, Calif. (KIEM)- With air quality levels still reading unhealthy in the county, the US National Weather Service in Eureka explains why we are still seeing this, and how surrounding fires are a contributing factor.

Last week many residents raised concerns with the sky and air quality. Experts from the weather service state there are a few factors in determining when fresh air will make its return to the North Coast.

Wildfire activity near the county is causing smoke to lift up in the atmosphere, ultimately pumping out smoke and making its way here to our air levels.

Winds help guide the smoke that’s coming inland to our local community. At this time the weather service states that even though skies seem clearer this week, forecasting when it will go away depends on the wildfire activity that surrounds us.