JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – The North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality (NDDEQ) says those in the eastern part of the state could see smoke impact their area as wildfires in Montana and Canada continue.

Residents are encouraged to consider limiting prolonged outdoor activities while conditions fluctuate across the state.

Jim Semerad is the Director for the Division of Air Quality.

Particulate matter can irritate the respiratory system, especially for those who suffer from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or conditions such as asthma and allergies. The NDDEQ advises people with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and young children to avoid prolonged outdoor exposure.

Semerad says a good rule of thumb is to just listen to your body when it comes to the conditions.

He added that conditions can change quickly in a matter of hours, pointing out the way Fargo was affected by smoky air just two weeks ago.

Another thing residents should be considering is their indoor air quality and how the smoke may have affected that.

For up-to-date information on the region’s current air quality and tips on respiratory protection during a smoke event, visit airnow.gov.