Smoke, Pollution In Metro Denver Improves

DENVER, CO — Pollution has improved in Denver's metro area, state public health data shows.

Ozone concentrations are expected to be in the 'moderate' to 'good' categories Friday.

"Unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion on Friday from noon to 8 pm," the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment said.

Fine particulate matter concentrations from wildfire smoke along the Front Range and foothills is expected to be in the 'good' category Friday, the agency said.

Visibility in Denver is expected to be in the 'moderate' category.

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The cleaner air is a relief for many Coloradans — the combination of the smoke and the ozone has made it difficult for many to enjoy a summer outdoors. Dozens of action day alerts for ozone have been issued for metro Denver since May.

Ozone pollution, often called smog, forms when gases that come out of tailpipes and smokestacks, among other sources, come into contact with sunlight. Ozone is "one of the most dangerous and widespread pollutants in the U.S.," the lung association said.

Ozone can damage people's airways, make their lungs more susceptible to infection and aggravate lung diseases, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.

>> Read the full air quality advisory here.