Smoke from Central California wildfires continue to affect LA County

Smoke from Central and Northern California wildfires is expected to affect areas of Los Angeles County for a second straight day Friday, the South Coast Air Quality Management District said.

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

But levels could be elevated — possibly reaching “unhealthy for sensitive group” levels — in the San Gabriel, San Bernardino and San Jacinto mountains.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued an advisory through Friday afternoon.

The poorest air quality was expected in the Hemet-San Jacinto Valley, as well as portions of the Coachella Valley, according to the SCAQMD.

“To help keep indoor air clean during periods of poor air quality, close all windows and doors and run your air conditioner or air purifier,” the SCAQMD said.

The agency also advised: `If possible, do not use whole-house fans or swamp coolers that bring in outside air.

“Avoid burning wood in your fireplace or fire pit 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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