Air District Issues Air Quality Advisory Through Wednesday

SAN FRANCISCO – The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is issuing an air quality advisory for wildfire smoke through Wednesday, September 20.

Smoke from fires in Northern California and Oregon is expected to impact air quality throughout the Bay Area today, Tuesday, September 19 and tomorrow, Wednesday, September 20. Air Quality is expected to be in the moderate range on the U.S. EPA’s Air Quality Index. Smoky, hazy skies may be visible and the smell of smoke is possible. Pollutant levels are NOT expected to exceed the national 24-hour health standard and there is no Spare the Air Alert in effect.

The Air District will be closely monitoring air quality throughout the region for smoke impacts from these fires.

If the smell of smoke is present, it is important that Bay Area residents protect their health by avoiding exposure. If possible, stay inside with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside, if temperatures allow. It is also recommended that those impacted by smoke set their air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate to prevent outside air from moving inside.

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat and irritated sinuses. Elevated particulate matter in the air can trigger wheezing in those who suffer from asthma, emphysema or COPD. Elderly persons, children and individuals with respiratory illnesses are particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.

Check here for air quality readings: https://fire.airnow.gov/.

The Bay Area Air Quality Management District is the regional agency responsible for protecting air quality in the nine-county Bay Area. Connect with the Air District via Twitter, Facebook and YouTube