Los Angeles County is the focus of an air quality alert reported at 3:59 p.m. on Wednesday by the National Weather Service. The alert is in effect until Thursday at noon.
According to the NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA, “The South Coast AQMD has issued an air quality alert due to harmful levels of windblown dust and ash.”
“Particle pollution can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems such as asthma attacks, heart and lung disease symptoms, and increased risk of respiratory infections. Everyone can be affected, but sensitive groups such as people with lung or heart disease, older adults, people who are pregnant, children, and those who spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk,” the NWS said.
The full list of affected locations includes:
- Calabasas/Agoura Hills
- Eastern Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area
- 5 Freeway corridor near Santa Clarita
- Malibu
- Santa Clarita Valley
- Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor
- Western Santa Monica Mountains Recreational area
Air quality alerts: Recommendations from the NWS
When an air quality alert pops up on the radar, deciphering its implications is crucial. These alerts, issued by the NWS, come with straightforward yet essential guidance to ensure your safety:
Prioritize indoor stay:
If it’s within your means, stay indoors, especially if you have respiratory issues, health concerns, or fall within the senior or child demographics.
Minimize outdoor ventures:
When venturing outside becomes unavoidable, limit your outdoor exposure strictly to essential tasks. Reducing your time outdoors is the name of the game.
Mitigate pollution sources:
Be mindful of activities that exacerbate pollution, such as driving cars, operating gas-powered lawnmowers, or using other motorized vehicles. Limit their use during air quality alerts.
Banish open burning:
Refrain from igniting fires with debris or any other materials during air quality alerts. Such practices only contribute to the problem of poor air quality.
Stay well-informed:
Stay updated by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news outlet. Staying informed helps you make wise choices regarding outdoor activities during air quality alerts.
Focus on respiratory health:
If you have respiratory issues or health problems, exercise extra caution. These conditions can make you more vulnerable to the adverse effects of poor air quality.
By adhering to the recommendations from the NWS, you can enhance your safety during air quality alerts and reduce your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay vigilant, stay protected, and prioritize your health above all else.