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Noticing a haze around San Antonio? Smoke from Mexico is partially to blame

Agricultural burning is expected to continue until June

Smoke from agricultural fires in Mexico will be around San Antonio for most of this week (Copyright 2024 by KSAT - All rights reserved.)

SAN ANTONIO – Surface smoke is funneling up through Texas courtesy of agricultural burning in Mexico.

KEY POINTS:

  • Small dip in air quality expected
  • Nothing unusual -- this happens every year
  • Colorful sunrises and sunsets
  • Agricultural burning in Mexico should end around June

WHAT’S THE DEAL WITH THE HAZE?

The haze is a combination of thick humidity, low clouds, and smoke.

Agricultural burning takes place every year in Mexico, as it helps enhance crops and grasses for pasture. However, the smoke can also help degrade air quality.

AIR QUALITY

Forecast air quality from agricultural fires in Mexico is expected to be moderate (Copyright 2024 by KSAT - All rights reserved.)

For the most part, there will only be a small dip in air quality from the perfect “good” category to the “moderate” category. Occasionally, if the smoke is really high, or if it is very humid, the air could become “unhealthy for sensitive groups.” These are folks who are elderly or have lung disorders. We will let you know if air quality dips below “moderate” levels.

COLORFUL SUNRISES/SUNSETS

The most noticeable impact of the agricultural smoke will be more colorful sunrises and sunsets. The tiny smoke particles in the air react with sunlight to great beautiful hues of yellow and orange early and late in the day.

WHEN WILL THE SMOKE END?

At least some smoke is expected to hang around for about a month, with higher concentrations when there is a southerly wind combining with thick humidity. The burning should wind down soon, however, with growing season taking over from June to October.

Read more from the meteorologists on the Whatever the Weather page

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Find the latest forecasts, radar and alerts on the KSAT Weather Authority page


About the Authors
Justin Horne headshot

Justin Horne is a meteorologist and reporter for KSAT 12 News. When severe weather rolls through, Justin will hop in the KSAT 12 Storm Chaser to safely bring you the latest weather conditions from across South Texas. On top of delivering an accurate forecast, Justin often reports on one of his favorite topics: Texas history.

Sarah Spivey headshot

Sarah Spivey is a San Antonio native who grew up watching KSAT. She has been a proud member of the KSAT Weather Authority Team since 2017. Sarah is a Clark High School and Texas A&M University graduate. She previously worked at KTEN News. When Sarah is not busy forecasting, she enjoys hanging out with her husband and cat, and playing music.

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