Reviewed by the Evolve Health clinical team · 2026-09-30 · 1 min read
Texas has its own wildfires — especially in the Panhandle — and smoke from fires in other states regularly drifts over North Texas. Fine smoke particles can irritate eyes, throats, and lungs, even far from the flames.
Who's most affected
Children, older adults, pregnant people, and anyone with asthma, COPD, or heart disease feel smoke effects first. But heavy smoke can bother healthy adults too, causing coughing, scratchy throats, and headaches.
On smoky days
Check air quality on AirNow.gov or your weather app. When air quality is poor: keep windows closed, run air conditioning on recirculate, avoid outdoor exercise, and wear a well-fitted N95 mask if you must be outside. Portable HEPA air cleaners help indoors. Cloth and surgical masks don't filter smoke particles effectively.
Texas Panhandle fires
The 2024 Panhandle fires were a reminder that major wildfires happen in Texas. If you live near fire-prone grassland, know your evacuation routes and keep a go-bag ready during fire season.
When to seek care
See a provider for wheezing, chest tightness, or breathing trouble that doesn't settle once you're in clean air. Anyone with a lung or heart condition should follow their action plan and check in sooner rather than later.
Visit us
Evolve Health is at 2442 Lillian Miller Pkwy, Suite 115, Denton, TX 76205. Book online or call (940) 257-2002 to schedule a visit, in person or by video anywhere in Texas.
Need care for this?
Book an appointment online in under a minute, or call (940) 257-2002 — same-day appointments may be available.