Wildfire Smoke Spurs Extension Of Bay Area Air Quality Advisory

SAN FRANCISCO, CA — Scorching inland temperatures, wildfire smoke and tailpipe exhaust continued to hamper air quality in the Bay Area on Saturday, prompting officials to extend a Spare the Air Alert through Sunday, according to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.

The lingering heat wave bearing down on some parts of the Bay Area, coupled with smoke from wildfires in California, Oregon and Washington are expected to continue to impact the San Francisco Bay Area.

While isolated pockets of elevated pollution levels are possible, a Spare the Air Alert is not in effect and pollution levels are not expected to exceed the national 24-hour standard.

Such alerts are issued when ozone pollution has the potential to reach unhealthy levels, officials said. Ozone and elevated smog is known to cause throat irritation, congestion, chest pain and can trigger asthma. Smoke can also inflame the lining of the lungs and worsen bronchitis and emphysema. Long-term exposure can reduce lung function.

The air district urges anyone planning to do strenuous activities to do so in the early morning hours when ozone concentrations are lower.

"Wildfires, and the resulting smoke and ash, can be particularly unhealthy for vulnerable people, including children, older adults, those with respiratory illness or asthma, and pregnant people," said Dr. Tomás Aragón, State Public Health Officer.

Officials are urging Bay Area residents to take steps to protect their health, including staying indoors and reducing outdoor activity if necessary to avoid the inhalation of smoke and ash, in a news release Saturday afternoon.

Fine particles found in wood smoke can produce toxins that are harmful to the lungs if inhaled. Anyone who smells smoke or sees ash from a wildfire was advised to limit their exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed and avoid vigorous physical activity.

"Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a scratchy throat and irritated sinuses," the agency said. "Elevated particulate matter in the air can trigger wheezing in those who suffer from asthma, emphysema or COPD."

Inhaling wildfire smoke can affect the lungs and the heart and cause persistent cough, runny nose, phlegm, wheezing, and difficulty breathing. Smoke from wildfires can also cause eye irritation, reduced lung function and bronchitis, health officials said. People with underlying lung or heart problems should limit their exposure by staying indoors.

People who must work outdoors for long periods, in areas with heavy smoke, or where ash is present, should wear a well-fitting N95 or P100 respirator mask, according to the California Department of Public Health.

Real-time air quality readings in the Bay Area can be found here.