Two ongoing brush fires in Breakheart Reservation and Middleton, Massachusetts, are creating widespread smoke and reduced air quality across the region. Fire departments, supported by mutual aid and helicopter assistance, are actively battling these blazes. The fires, intensified by recent dry weather and light southeast winds, are causing significant smoke spread across the Merrimack Valley and into southern New Hampshire. Temporary measures such as canceled outdoor activities and early school dismissals have been implemented in impacted areas. Continue to monitor updates from local authorities.
Air Quality & Safety Recommendations
The ongoing fires have degraded air quality to hazardous levels in some regions.
- Air Quality Levels: Brief periods of hazardous air quality have been reported. The thickest smoke is settling along Route 3 and the Middlesex Turnpike, extending up to the Merrimack Valley into Southern New Hampshire.
- Health Recommendations:
- Limit Outdoor Activity: Residents in smoky areas should avoid outdoor exertion.
- Indoor Air Purifiers: Use purifiers if available, as they help reduce smoke impact indoors.
- Stay Informed: Follow local fire department updates closely as conditions evolve.
Weather Outlook & Fire Spread Potential
Short-Term Weather Relief
- Rainfall Tonight: Brief showers are expected from 9 PM tonight into early Wednesday morning, with projected rainfall totals of only 0.1 to 0.2 inches. While any rain will be beneficial, this limited amount is unlikely to fully contain the fires.
- Wind Forecast: Unfortunately, the incoming showers are accompanied by strengthening winds.
- Overnight Wind Gusts: Gusts of 20-30 mph are expected overnight tonight, increasing the potential for fire and smoke spread.
- Wednesday Winds: Winds will die down slightly during the day but are expected to increase again by Wednesday night.
Monitoring Local Conditions with the 1DegreeOutside App
The 1DegreeOutside App offers useful features for residents near the fires, including precise, real-time updates on wind direction and speed. Here’s how you can set up the app for specific fire-related tracking:
- Download the App: Search “Noyes” or “Noyes’ 1DegreeOutside” in the App Store or Google Play.
- Set Pinpoint Location:
- After entering your location, tap the three dots next to it.
- Select “Pinpoint,” and you can zoom the map to place a pin at your exact location (or near the fires).
- Wind Tracking: Use the hourly forecast page to track wind speed and direction forecasts to 48 hours, or use the interactive radar tab to plot wind speed and direction, with updates as new data arrives.
Key Takeaways and Precautions
- Health Caution: Reduce exposure to smoky air by staying indoors and using air purifiers if available.
- Stay Updated: Local fire departments provide critical updates, so check their notifications for the latest advisories.
- Wind and Fire Spread: Stronger winds may fan the flames, increasing smoke impact overnight and possibly worsening air quality for nearby communities.
Stay informed and stay safe by visiting 1DegreeOutside.com or following us on social media @1DegreeOutside.
