The Windy Fire in Tulare County burned aggressively Friday, and that's had a big impact here in Kern County.
Winds are carrying the smoke directly toward us in the Valley, keeping places like Bakersfield under a blanket of thick smoke.
Air Quality has hovered between unhealthy for sensitive groups and unhealthy for the general public.
The smoke is also blocking out the sun, keeping us much cooler than we would normally be.
Smoke remains in the forecast through the weekend, though at least in Bakersfield we expect the smoke to be higher in the atmosphere, and have less of an effect on air quality.
On Sunday air quality remained unhealthy for sensitive groups, with an AQI of 127. However, we will see a major improvement by Monday, when that air quality alert expires.
Skies should begin to clear up Tuesday and Wednesday as cooler, fresher air blows into Kern County.
During this time a cold front will also push through the region, bringing us below average temperatures. With afternoon highs in the 70's to 80's for much of next week!
By Thursday, ridging will begin to build, bringing a slight warming trend for next weekend. Highs will stay in the low 90's for the Valley. Temperatures will rise to near normal for this time of year.
