By Ricardo Roura
The forest fires that broke out in the region, combined with high temperatures, caused alerts to be issued this Wednesday, May 20, due to poor air quality in several counties from southern California.
In a report, the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) updated the alerts after including the Verona fire, which originated this Tuesday in Riverside County.
Counties that may suffer the effects of smoke from the fires are: Los Angeles, Ventura, Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange.
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The AQMD reported that The notices were in effect until at least 4:30 p.m. this Wednesday.due to smoke caused by the Sandy fires, in Ventura County; to the Bain and Verona fires, in Riverside, and the Santa Rosa fire, whose smoke affects the coasts of Los Angeles and Orange counties.
“The areas of Riverside and San Bernardino counties near the Bain and Verona fires may reach Unhealthy for sensitive groups AQI or higherincluding Eastvale and Murrieta,” the AQMD said in its report.
For certain areas of Los Angeles County, Poor air quality may be recorded due to smoke from the Sandy firewhich burns in Ventura County, and by the Santa Rosa fire, whose smoke can be carried by the wind during the night, and even reach Orange County.
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“Smoke effects may vary depending on time and location. If you see ash or smell smoke, take precautions to protect your health,” the AQMD recommended.
Residents in smoke-affected areas should take into account the following recommendations:
- Limit your exposure to smoke by staying indoors with doors and windows closed or seeking alternative shelter.
- Avoid activity intense physics.
- Turn on the air conditioner or an air purifier. If possible, do not use evaporative coolers or ceiling fans that bring in outside air.
- Avoid burning wood in your fireplace or campfire and minimize indoor air pollution caused by candles, incense, pan-frying foods, and grilling.
- If you must stay outdoors, it is recommended to use an N95 or P100 mask well-fitted to provide some protection.
Authorities said the conditions of Air quality may improve Wednesday afternoon and evening in areas not close to active fires, depending on fire activity.
Keep reading: Burning of wood is prohibited in Southern California
The South Coast Air Quality Management District is the regulatory body responsible for monitoring air quality in large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley.
For air quality updates and alertsresidents can check the aqmd.gov website, or download its app in the Apple App Store or Google Play.
Keep reading:
· California program offers $2,000 to residents for electric bicycles
· Air pollution levels are on the rise in the city of Los Angeles
· Indoor and outdoor wood burning ban in effect in Southern California
