The Science Behind Our Smoky Skies

California has been battling a historic fire season this summer and the effects are as far reaching as New York City.

Meteorologists have a host of tools at their disposal to forecast weather, forecast data that can predict precipitation or even drastic temperature changes. We’re also using these forecasting tools to track the progression of smoke across the United States, which is stemming from the California wildfires.

With heavy smoke continuing to billow from the blazes, we’re seeing that smoke be carried by the upper-level jet stream winds, bringing smoky skies to Mid-Missouri and even as far east as New York City.

You may notice as you head out this evening, even though it’s mostly sunny, the skies may have a milky gray color to them– that is indeed smoke being transported from out west, here to Mid-Missouri. This smoke doesn’t impose any immediate danger to the public, however older adults and young children may notice effects outdoors this weekend, especially for portions of western Mid-Missouri.

-Luke