LINCOLN - Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services has issued a smoke alert for eastern Nebraska from 6 a.m. Saturday to noon on Sunday.

The air quality index is listed as moderate to unhealthy for sensitive groups.

Cities affected include Beatrice, Columbus, Grand Island, Lincoln Nebraska City and Omaha.

 

During Moderate AQI (yellow category) conditions, those who are unusually sensitive to particle pollution may experience health effects. When conditions rise to the yellow category, those who are unusually sensitive are advised to consider shortening outdoor activities and reducing the intensity of these activities. Symptoms such as coughing or shortness of breath are signs to take it easier.  

During Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups AQI (orange category) conditions, members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. Sensitive groups include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and teenagers, pregnant women, and outdoor workers. When conditions rise to the orange category, sensitive groups are advised to reduce prolonged or heavy exertion and avoid intense outdoor activities.