Borough issues air quality warning

PALMER — Dry weather and strong winds have prompted the Mat-Su Borough to issue an air quality warning.

According to a borough press release, the warning is valid from noon Tuesday “until the wind subsides.” The borough expects the wind will create a "prolonged period of blowing dust and silt."

“During these times, children, the elderly and persons with existing heart or lung disease should stay indoors and reduce physical activity. The general population should avoid vigorous outdoor activity,” reads the press release, sent Tuesday by the borough’s chief of planning, Eileen Probasco.

The warning also mentions fire danger, saying that the dry weather, strong winds and lack of snowpack could create a situation amenable to wild fires.

Probasco's release says the current weather will likely persist "well into next week."

A 24-hour Air Quality Alert System phone number has information about air quality in the eastern Matanuska Valley. The number is: 352-3878.