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EPA Tools for Assessing Wildfire Smoke Impacts
Citation:
Barkjohn, K. AND A. Rappold. EPA Tools for Assessing Wildfire Smoke Impacts. Region 5 Tribal Environmental Program Management Conference, NA, Virtual, March 17, 2022.
Impact/Purpose:
Interest and concern about air quality has grown in recent years especially during wildfires. Simultaneously, growth in the popularity and use of air sensors across the US has also occurred. However, with so many sources of sensor and governmental data it can be challenging for users to interpret. In this presentation we will share the methods behind incorporating the PurpleAir sensor data on the AirNow Fire and Smoke map, how this map is used to convey important information to the public, and how the map can be used to reduce smoke exposure. The talk will also cover the Smoke Sense App. These slides will be presented as a Plenary at Region 5’s Tribal Environmental Program Manager’s Meeting March 17th, 2022.
Description:
Residents and local agencies in smoke impacted areas often seek more localized air quality data. In 2020, air sensor measurements were added to the AirNow Fire and Smoke map. The map displays PurpleAir sensor measurements as “Low-Cost Sensor” icons alongside permanent and temporary smoke monitor measurements. Monitor and sensor icons are displayed as different shapes and are colored by NowCast AQI category. Clicking on an icon provides particulate matter concentrations at various averaging intervals, trends based on the past 30 minutes of air sensor data, and recommendations for health protective actions. In this talk we will also present our recommendations for smoke sensor networks based on what we have learned on the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map.