Widespread haze today — weather alert

Widespread haze is forecast today after the 11 o’clock hour this morning, and South Carolinians are being advised about possible health effects related to smoke from wildfires burning across parts of central and western Canada and the western U-S.  Smoke from the fires that has drifted into the northern part of South Carolina can irritate the eyes and respiratory system, as well as aggravate or exacerbate chronic heart and lung diseases. A DHEC advisory indicates the most significant health and visibility impacts will be roughly along and north of a line from Myrtle Beach to Columbia to Abbeville.  The most significant effects should occur through today and may last into tomorrow. Those with respiratory issues should limit time outdoors.  Keep windows and doors closed.  If you have one, run the air conditioner, but keep the fresh-air intake closed and filter clean to prevent outdoor smoke from getting inside.