Health Agency Issues Very Poor Air Warning For Southern Idaho

A state department that monitors air quality for Idaho has issued an advisory of extremely poor conditions that includes Twin Falls County and extends through August 6.

Southern Idaho air has been some of the worst in the country for weeks as a result of fires burning along the Oregon-Idaho border and in the eastern portion of the state. The Idaho fire map currently details information on close to a dozen blazes burning statewide, including four substantial ones sending smoke directly into the Magic Valley.

Winds have been relatively calm lately in Twin Falls County, which has resulted in smoke from fires like the Big Grass and Tar Tar lofting east and remaining in the region.

The Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Has Issued A Poor Air Advisory For Twin Falls County Through August 6

Wildfire smoke mixes with sunset in Twin Falls on August 4, 2026. Credit: Greg Jannetta

Current DEQ information puts southern Idaho in the extremely unhealthy category due to wildfires, according to a recent department release from state Air Quality Manager Bobby Dye.

Cassia, Gooding, Jerome, Lincoln, Minidoka, and Twin Falls Counties were named as having the poorest state air quality by the DEQ. This advisory will remain in effect through 1 P.M. Thursday.

Certain members of the public--specifically the elderly, those with heart and lung issues, and children--may experience adverse health effects from such poor air quality. It's advised that people who fall into these categories refrain from spending too much time outdoors until conditions improve.

Twin Falls Fire Stations

Twin Falls is home to four fire stations within its city limits. All four are small and dated for the needs of Twin Falls’ growing community. However, the city has plans for the construction of a new fire station.

Gallery Credit: Credit N8