The National  Weather Service office in Rapid City reports that the smoke hovering over Rapid City today is from western U.S. wildfires primarily in Washington and Oregon that have consumed hundreds of thousands of acres and led to massive evacuations in the western states.

Jon Chamberlain, meteorologist with the NWS, said the western states fires were largely caused by lightning strikes in the Rockies which are suffering from extreme drought.

The NWS reports that air quality may reach levels that are unhealthy for sensitive groups (including young children, older adults, and those with heart or lung conditions). Consider limiting extended outdoor activity if you are sensitive to smoke.

Chamberlain said that today (Monday) will be the worst of the smoke in the region and a northerly wind later tonight should clear the air.