Smoke from California fires creating haze over Las Vegas Valley

Residents can expect hazy days ahead as smoke from California wildfires moves into the Las Vegas Valley, according to the National Weather Service.

Smoke from the Blue Cut Fire near Cajon Pass in Southern California was visible over the valley Wednesday morning, the weather service said.

The Clark County Department of Air Quality issued a smoke and ozone advisory lasting through Friday. The department has forecast a moderate level of smoke and ozone levels that might be unhealthy for sensitive groups for those three days.

People with respiratory problems or cardiac disease might be affected by an increase in ozone and fine particles, and children and senior citizens could suffer too. Residents who are at risk should stay inside, keep their windows closed and run their air conditioners.

The Blue Cut Fire started Tuesday morning, and as of 7 p.m. Wednesday, the fire spread to more than 25,000 acres.

Wednesday’s high was 107 degrees, with smoke lingering in the air throughout the day.

Highs will continue to fall back to near-average temperatures through the weekend, with a high of 105 degrees forecast for Thursday and 104 degrees for Friday.

Parts of Henderson saw some light rain, as did parts of Boulder City, according to the weather service; between 0.04 and 0.08 inches fell in Henderson, and trace amounts fell in Boulder City.

Weekend temperatures will stay just a few degrees above average for this time of year, with a high of 105 degrees for Saturday and 102 degrees for Sunday.

Review-Journal reporter Christian Bertolaccini contributed to this story. Contact Max Michor at mmichor@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-0381. Find @MaxMichor on Twitter.