2-Day Air Quality Advisory Issued For Bay Area

BAY AREA, CA — The Bay Area Air Quality Management District has issued a two-day air quality advisory for Friday and Saturday for the Bay Area.

Smoke from wildfires in Southern and Central California is expected to continue to impact the Bay Area through Saturday with smoky and hazy skies, the air district said Thursday in a news release.

"Pollution levels are not expected to exceed federal health standards and no Spare the Air Alert is in effect. The Air District will closely monitor air quality throughout the region for smoke impacts from wildfires."

If the smell of smoke is present, Bay Area residents should avoid exposure by staying inside, if possible, with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside, according to the air district.

"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," the air district said.

"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."

View local air-quality readings at Baaqmd.gov/highs.