Air Quality Advisory Extended For Bay Area

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CA — The Bay Area Air Quality Management District extended an air quality advisory for wildfire smoke through Tuesday, when smoke from wildfires across the state is predicted to continued to impact the region.

While no Spare the Air Alert is in effect, lofted smoke is expected to cause hazy and smoky skies. Pollution levels are not expected to exceed federal health standards and air quality is expected to be in the good to moderate range on the Air Quality Index.

The Air District said it will continue to closely monitor air quality throughout the nine-county Bay Area region for smoke impacts from the fires.

"If the smell of smoke is present, it is important that Bay Area residents protect their health by avoiding exposure," the Air District said Monday in a news release. "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."

According to the Air District, 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 local air quality readings.