Smoke from central California wildfires expected to affect LA County

Smoke from central California wildfires is expected to affect areas of Los Angeles County, the South Coast Air Quality Management District advised Thursday.

The heaviest smoke will be present in the upper atmosphere and will result in “good”  to “moderate” air quality index levels throughout the South Coast Air Basin, which includes the southern two-thirds of Los Angeles County, according to the South Coast AQMD.

AQI levels are expected to be elevated — possibly reaching “unhealthy for sensitive group” levels — in the San Gabriel, San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountains.

An advisory is in effect through Friday afternoon. The South Coast AQMD advises residents to keep all windows and doors closed and to run an air conditioner or air purifier to keep indoor air clean.

`If possible, do not use whole house fans or swamp coolers that bring in outside air, the South Coast AQMD said.

“Avoid burning wood in your fireplace or firepit and minimize sources of indoor air pollution such as candles, incense, pan-frying and grilling. Limit the use of gasoline powered lawn and garden equipment.”

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