Air regulators issued advisories for Los Angeles and Orange counties because of several large wildfires that were continuing to burn Wednesday.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued the alert, which was in effect until 4:30 p.m., but could be extended depending on developments Wednesday.
The same warning was in place for parts of Ventura, Riverside and San Bernardino counties.
Southland residents inhaled the odor of smoke Tuesday evening from the Sandy Fire, which scorched nearly 1,700 acres in Simi Valley and was 15% contained by Wednesday morning, according to Cal Fire.
Two substantial wildfires were active Wednesday in Riverside County. The Bain Fire in Jurupa Valley was estimated to be 1,375 acres and was 25% contained, and the Verona Fire in Homeland had burned 500 acres with 5% containment.
The Santa Rosa Island Fire in Santa Barbara that started Friday and was mapped at 16,942 acres also sent smoke into the air over areas of northern LA County.
The SCAQMD said Orange County and much of LA County were expected to be in the moderate Air Quality Index category or higher, with smoke coming ashore from the Santa Rosa Island Fire. Areas of Los Angeles County adjacent to the Sandy Fire may reach the “unhealthy” designation or higher for the “sensitive groups” category.
Depending on the various fire’s direction of progress and other factors, smoke conditions were expected to improve Wednesday in locations not adjacent to active wildfires.
Officials advised the following precautions:
- Limit exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seeking alternate shelter.
- Avoid vigorous physical activity.
- Run air conditioning and/or an air purifier. If possible, do not use swamp coolers or whole house fans that bring in outside air.
- Avoid burning wood in fireplaces or firepits and minimize sources of indoor air pollution — candles, incense, pan-frying and grilling.
- If outdoor activity is a must, a properly fit N95 or P100 respirator may provide protection.
