An air-quality alert was issued by the National Weather Service in Missoula Montana at about 6 p.m. Aug. 19. The Montana Department of Environmental Quality issued an air-quality alert for Lincoln, Sanders, Mineral, Missoula, Ravalli, Flathead, Granite, Powell, Deer Lodge, Silver Bow and Lake Counties. and will remain in effect until.

An air-quality alert means that particulates in the air rose above the 24-hour national ambient air quality standard. Particulate levels in the cities of Hamilton and Libby are unhealthy. 

Particulate levels in Seeley Lake are currently unhealthy for sensitive groups.  Particulate levels in the cities of Missoula, Butte and Frenchtown are currently moderate. 

When air quality levels are unhealthy, the Montana Department of Health and Human Services recommends that people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly and children should avoid prolonged exertion. Everyone else should limit prolonged exertion. 

When air-quality levels are unhealthy for sensitive groups, the Montana Department of Health and Human Services recommends that people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly and children should limit prolonged exertion.  For more information visit http://www.todaysair.mt.gov.