Strong Santa Ana winds are predicted for the area, therefore the South Coast Air Quality Management District and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health continue to issue an advisory for wind-blown dust and ash.
Officials are particularly concerned about the ash left behind from the several wildfires that broke out throughout Southern California a week ago. The warning will remain in force until Wednesday at 7 p.m.
Given that wind gusts of between 55 and 70 mph are predicted over a large portion of Ventura and Los Angeles counties, the National Weather Service has issued a “Particularly Dangerous Situation” red flag warning.
“It’s critical to maintain vigilance on air quality. Dr. Nicole Quick, the top medical advisor for the LA County Department of Public Health, stated that wind and fire conditions can increase the amount of dust, ash, and particulate matter.
Following the initiation and rapid spread of the Palisades Fire, the South Coast AQMD issued a smoke alert on January 7.Since then, many alerts for smoke and wind-blown dust have been renewed and prolonged.
A number of schools in the Los Angeles Unified School District started to express worry about the quality of the air. Because of the dangerous and toxic air quality, Superintendent Alberto Carvalho closed all schools last week. With the exception of those that were damaged, the majority of schools have reopened since the fires began.
Advice on how to reduce exposure to dangerous particles:
“Windblown dust and ash contain small particles that may cause irritation or exacerbate pre-existing health conditions, particularly for children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with heart or lung conditions,” noted the Department of Public Health.