Air quality may improve this weekend in Tahoe

While the fire near Yosemite continues to ravage the forest and threaten structures, firefighters believe they can have it fully contained by Sept. 20.

Smoke continues to be an issue for much of the Lake Tahoe Basin, though the West Shore at least on Wednesday was less impacted than other areas. Reno, Carson City, Carson Valley and parts of Alpine County are inundated more than the basin.

Schools throughout the region are continuing to monitor air quality in their specific locations to determine if and when it is appropriate for children to be outdoors for recess and if sports teams should practice or compete.

Emerald Bay on Aug. 28 at 7:50pm. Photo/LTN

A dense smoke advisory is in effect for all of the above locations until 5 this afternoon. But that does not mean the smoke will be gone as of Friday.

The National Weather Service in Reno said, “Smoky conditions could also improve this weekend due to a changing weather pattern especially for areas north of I-80. However, south of I-80 there is a 60 percent chance impacts from the fire will continue through Labor Day.”

The Rim Fire has burned 192,737 acres and is 30 percent contained.

According to fire officials, “The California National Guard is operating a remotely piloted aircraft to help efforts to contain the fire. It will identify where fire activity is located, how it is moving, including locating and identifying spot fires. It will improve the ability to protect life property and natural resources.”

The American Fire near Foresthill is still producing smoke, but is expected to be fully contained today. It has charred 26,194 acres. Parts of the Tahoe National Forest will remain closed until the fire is out, which is much different than contained, and crews repair any areas from firefighting activity that needs it.

— Lake Tahoe News staff report