FRANKFORT, Ky. (AP) - Wildfires are causing poor air quality in southeastern Kentucky, and the Kentucky Department for Public Health has issued a smoke inhalation advisory to people living in the region.
The agency says air quality tests in parts of Bell, Harlan and Rockcastle counties have shown values that are “unhealthy for sensitive groups,” such as those with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and emphysema.
Harlan and Knott counties have test values deemed “unhealthy,” meaning the general public may experience adverse health effects. Breathitt and Perry counties have readings placing residents in the “very unhealthy” category, meaning the general public is at risk of serious health effects. Some areas of Breathitt, Laurel and Whitley counties have levels that are “hazardous,” meaning everyone is expected to be affected by health hazards.
The levels were observed Tuesday morning and are expected to change as winds and fires change.
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