Why is it hazy in Oklahoma today? Wildfires tell the story

If you've noticed a hazy horizon today, you're not alone.

The lowered visibility and worsened air quality can be attributed to wildfire smoke blowing in from western areas of the U.S. and other fires occurring more locally.

Here's what to know:

Why is the sky hazy today?

Major wildfires in California and Colorado are disrupting air quality in other states, experts say.

California's Park fire, which is so far the fifth-largest in their state history, has burned across almost 400,000 acres as of August 2, according to the National Interagency Fire Center.

As more acres burn, wind carries particulates southeast to Oklahoma. This drift results in the thin, mist-like haze that colors moons and sunsets a deeper hue as light refracts through particles in the atmosphere.

According to the National Wildfire Coordinating Group, burning in the plains region peaks in spring and fall. However, in the western mountains, fires pop up most in summer . This is because it is the warmest and driest time of year, with an occasional dry, cold breeze.

In these high elevation areas, particularly Colorado and California, natural pine forests cover the ground in a thick layer of needles. These mountain climates have streams and rivers, but they can be prone to drought . When temperatures rise in summer, the conditions are comparable to a tinder box in the sun occasionally assisted by a set of bellows.

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Why is the sky orange?

When smoke from these fires drifts over to neighboring cities or states, skies can turn orange. The closer you are to a fire, the more orange or yellow it appears. The further you are from the fire, the less particles are in the air and the less of an effect you will see.

Is the air quality safe?

When the air quality is moderate, it is safe to be outside, but according to the Environmental Protection Agency , "pollution in this range may pose a moderate health concern for a very small number of individuals. People who are unusually sensitive to ozone or particle pollution may experience respiratory symptoms."

If the air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups, they advise some caution for people with heart or lung disease, people who are active outdoors, older adults, and children.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Why is it hazy in Oklahoma today? Wildfires tell the story