Station readings from the World Air Quality Index (WAQI) network, sourced from EPA, CDPHE, and partner monitoring stations. AQI is based on PM2.5 concentrations — the primary pollutant from wildfire smoke. For smoke plume coverage see EPA AirNow ↗. For active fire locations see Colorado Active Fires Map.
Disclaimer: Air quality conditions can change rapidly during active fire events. Always follow guidance from Colorado DPHE and local emergency managers. This map is informational and may lag real-time conditions.
The AQI measures PM2.5 — fine particles from wildfire smoke. The higher the number, the more smoke is present and the greater the health risk. When AQI climbs above 150, fire is typically close enough that ember transport to your property becomes a real threat.
Air quality is satisfactory. Little to no smoke influence. Normal outdoor activity is fine.
Acceptable air quality. Some smoke may be present. Unusually sensitive people should consider limiting prolonged outdoor exertion.
Smoke is noticeable. Children, elderly, and those with heart or lung conditions should reduce outdoor activity. A fire is likely burning in the region.
Everyone may begin to experience health effects. Heavy smoke present. Limit outdoor activity and check active fire locations in your area.
Health alert — significant smoke concentration. Stay indoors with windows closed. A substantial fire is likely burning within driving distance.
Emergency conditions. Avoid all outdoor activity. Monitor evacuation orders for your area. Have your go-bag ready.
Wildfire smoke is fine particulate matter carried by the same wind that transports firebrands — burning embers — miles ahead of a fire's front. When your AQI climbs above 150, it means high-velocity embers from an active fire can reach your roof, deck, and vents before flames ever arrive.
Defensible space and home hardening interrupt that process: noncombustible zones around your structure deny embers fuel, and hardened vents, eaves, and decking prevent ignition from the inside out. This is work that must be done before fire season — not during it.
Spotting fires — ignitions from airborne embers — are the leading cause of structure loss in WUI fires.
Vents, soffits, decks, and gutters are the primary ember-entry points. Home hardening closes those gaps.
Clearing combustibles immediately around your structure dramatically reduces ember ignition risk — even without a full clearance.
Smoke without a visible fire doesn't mean you're safe. Use the Active Fires Map and fire status page to identify the source and monitor its direction.
Close windows, doors, and fireplace dampers. Run HVAC on recirculate. An air purifier with a HEPA filter reduces indoor PM2.5 significantly during smoke events.
High-AQI events often precede evacuation orders by hours. Know your county's evacuation zones and have a go-bag ready. Check Colorado Emergency Management ↗.
High-smoke periods often coincide with active fire bans. Check the Colorado Fire Restrictions page before burning anything — including campfires, fire pits, or equipment use.
Don't wait for smoke to act. Colorado fire alert systems send notifications the moment an evacuation order or fire warning is issued in your area — before smoke reaches your neighborhood.
Smoke in the air is a clear signal that fire is active in your region. Use the moment to walk your property and identify defensible space gaps while the risk is top of mind.
NIFC-sourced fire locations, acreage and containment status across Colorado — updated daily.
Statewide DFPC restrictions map plus county-by-county fire ban links with official sources.
Enter your address and get an instant property-level wildfire hazard score from verified data.
Every county alert system in one place — sign up for evacuation warnings before smoke arrives.
