A bit of a haze has settled over Torre de Pedra today, and the air feels noticeably heavier than usual, especially if you’re out in the open for more than a few minutes. It’s not a thick, smoky blanket, but there’s a slight weight to each breath that can make your chest feel a little tight after a while.

If you were planning a long walk or a jog this afternoon, it might be wise to keep it lighter or choose a more relaxed pace indoors instead. The windows are best left shut for now, since the air outside isn’t doing us any favours, though a quick airing out early in the morning or late at night could still be fine.

Kids who love to play outside, as well as older neighbours and anyone with a history of breathing or heart concerns, should take it especially easy today. Their bodies are more sensitive to this kind of stuffy air, so a quiet afternoon with a book or a board game is a much better idea than running around the yard.

Don’t worry too much, though, this kind of air tends to clear up as the day goes on or with a change in the wind. Just take it easy, keep the windows closed for now, and check back in the evening when things often feel fresher. The sky over Torre de Pedra will likely brighten up by tomorrow.