Tenaja Fire Sends Smokey Air To Capistrano Valley

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, CA — A brush fire in Murrieta has sent smoke and ash into the upper atmosphere, fouling the air for many in the Capistrano Valley.

The wildfire, still burning near the Murrieta and La Cresta areas.

As of Thursday morning, the Tenaja Fire area was reported at 1,400 acres by CAL FIRE and the Riverside County Fire Department.

Gusty winds from the south Wednesday evening transported smoke into the Inland Empire.

Light winds from the north were expected to continue through Thursday morning, which were expected to blow smokey, particulate filled air into the Temecula and Capistrano Valleys and into San Diego County. Strong winds from the southwest are expected on Thursday around noon.

"If the Tenaja Fire continues to generate smoke on Thursday afternoon, smoke may again impact the Inland Empire," a spokesperson from the Air Quality Management District said.

Overall, meteorological conditions may bring smoke into portions of Riverside and Orange Counties.

Air quality may reach Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups or higher levels in areas directly impacted by smoke around noon on Thursday. Areas of direct impacts and unhealthful air quality may include portions of the Capistrano Valley area.

In any area impacted by smoke:

If you smell smoke or see ash due to a wildfire, limit your exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seeking alternate shelter, and avoiding vigorous physical activity.

Read also:

40 Incredible Images Of Murrieta's Tenaja Fire

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