Los Angeles County is included in an air quality alert reported by the National Weather Service on Friday at 8:22 a.m. The alert is in effect until Saturday Aug. 9, at 8 p.m.
The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA says to anticipate, “The South Coast AQMD has issued an air quality alert due to harmful levels of ozone pollution.”
“Ozone air pollution can cause serious health problems, including trouble breathing, asthma attacks, and lung damage. Everyone can be affected, but sensitive groups such as people with lung disease, older adults, people who are pregnant, children, and those who spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk,” the NWS said.
The full list of affected locations includes:
- Santa Clarita Valley
- San Fernando Valley
- 5 Freeway corridor near Santa Clarita
- Western San Gabriel Mountains/Highway 14 Corridor
- Eastern San Gabriel Mountains
- San Gabriel Valley
Air quality alerts: Recommendations from the NWS
When an air quality alert is in effect, following the NWS guidance is pivotal. Here are some simple tips from the NWS for safeguarding your well-being:
Prioritize indoor stay:
If possible, remain indoors, especially if you have respiratory issues, other health concerns, or fall within the senior or child demographics.
Minimize outdoor exposure:
When you can’t avoid going outdoors, keep outdoor activities to the bare essentials. Reducing your time outdoors is the key.
Reduce pollution contributors:
Be mindful of activities that increase pollution, like driving cars, operating gas-powered lawnmowers, or using motorized vehicles. Limit their usage during air quality alerts.
A no to open burning:
Resist the urge to burn debris or any other materials during an air quality alert. This practice only adds to the air pollution problem.
Stay well-informed:
Stay updated of developments by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news source. Being well-informed empowers you to make informed decisions regarding outdoor pursuits during air quality alerts.
Prioritize respiratory health:
If you have respiratory problems or underlying health conditions, exercise extra caution. These conditions can increase your vulnerability to adverse effects from poor air quality.
By adhering to the advice from the NWS, you can enhance your safety during air quality alerts while reducing your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay aware, stay protected, and make your health a top priority.