Single Publication

Smoke Outlook for Central Sierra and Greater Tahoe Area, Mosquito Fire (09-17-22)

Special Statement
Dense fog and low visibility are possible tonight into tomorrow morning where smoke is present. Caution is advised when traveling along roadways north of the fire area

Fire
The fire is currently over 71,000 acres and 21% contained, a growth of about 2,000 acres yesterday. As the fire area grows under SW winds and dry fuel, smoke production will continue. An approaching storm system will bring gustier winds, a chance of light rain over the fire area, and cooler temperatures in the 50’s starting early Sunday. Heavier rain showers are expected late Sunday through Monday.

Smoke
Yesterday’s fire activity under weakened SW winds caused significant smoke accumulation in areas east, south, and west of the fire. This created Moderate to Hazardous air quality around Grass Valley, Auburn, Placerville, and down to Arnold, CA. Smoke in these areas will persist throughout the morning today but some clearing is expected by late afternoon. East of the fire, smoke continued to accumulate around Truckee, Reno, and Carson City creating unhealthy to hazardous air quality that will persist through this morning with some clearing expected by the afternoon as the plume pushes farther north. Areas south of Lake Tahoe are expected to improve this morning and throughout the day. As the storm system moves in this afternoon, gusty winds will help clear some of the smoke out these areas in the coming days.