Haze from wildfire smoke has gradually increased along the Colorado Front Range over the past week. There are at least 7 active fires in Colorado and 6 in Utah, not to mention a couple in New Mexico and many farther west.
Of course, the ongoing Western drought is primarily responsible for the large number of fires, most of which have been ignited by lightning or human carelessness. So far, the annual Southwest Monsoon has been meager at best, bringing little moisture to the dry terrain.
Due to our local drought and poor air quality from the wildfires, most firework displays have already been cancelled throughout Metro Denver. Parades, cookouts and festivals will have to suffice.
