Below freezing temperatures and changing weather patterns are two factors that alter the quality of air, and that could take your breath away.

A high pressure ridge in the area this week is causing a minor drop in air quality.  According to the Idaho Department of Environmental Quality that drop is only minor, but its a vivid reminder of what winter weather can bring to the valley.

Idaho is known for having some of the most severe wintertime inversions in the Intermountain West, and that's due to the distinct topography and weather patterns in the Gem State.

Wintertime inversions are caused when colder, heavier air settles into valleys and a layer of warm air floats above.  The warmer air acts like a lid and traps pollutants near the ground.

Between November and February the Portneuf Valley experiences an increase in this affect, which in turn affects the quality of air and health.  Right now Southeast Idaho is low in the good category of air quality, so even minor inversions don't currently have a major impact.

The DEQ monitors the local air quality on an hourly basis and wants to urge people who choose to burn wood for heat this winter to burn it smart and burn clean.  The DEQ will also continue to track local air quality in the coming months.

Melissa Gibbs, Airshed Coordinator: "We keep a definite closer eye on it during the wintertime.  Updating it on the weekends and holidays.  For the next couple of weeks I don't envision it getting worse."

The Department of Environmental Quality says an approaching storm should hit the area by this weekend and push the high pressure system out.

For more information about current air quality around the region click here or call (208) 236-6160.