HAZE blanketing the south-east is unlikely to dissipate for several days as fires burn across Queensland, including significant blazes in the Scenic Rim.
Weather bureau meteorologist Vince Rowlands said smoke from the fires was reducing air quality, with haze set to hang around for a number of days.
He said smoke from blazes in northern NSW had been pushed over the south-east by winds overnight.
"It is pretty bad. We are expecting a bit of a north-easterly today and that should help improve things a little bit as we head into this evening and overnight but there's so much smoke in the atmosphere and it's extending out over the water, so we could see it just re-circulating around," he said.
Chief health officer Jeannette Young urged residents to stay indoors as much as possible in the next 24 to 48 hours to reduce their exposure to smoke.
"Treat this seriously and don't be complacent. Whether you're in Logan or Lowood or anywhere in between, everyone needs to limit time spent outdoors while these conditions remain," Dr Young said.
"If you have outdoor events planned this week, limit time outside or reschedule them. Nothing is worth compromising your health for.
"Queenslanders have a proud tradition in banding together in times of crisis, and I know you'll do your bit and look out for vulnerable people in your community.
"Conditions aren't expected to ease for at least a week, so we're reminding people to take care."
Health Minister Steven Miles encouraged locals to keep their medication on hand and check on vulnerable community members.
"Don't go it alone, seek medical advice or ring Triple Zero immediately if you're experiencing any adverse reactions to the smoke, such as shortness of breath, prolonged coughing or wheezing," he said.
Mr Rowlands said hot, dry and windy conditions would see an increase in fire danger on Wednesday, with winds set to peak at about 30 or 40 km/h.
"The amount of smoke that we're getting and the number of fires we are seeing is pretty unusual for Queensland (at this time of year)," he said.
He said drier and warmer conditions than average could mean the region would not see much relief over summer.
