'Extreme' Smog To Coincide With Temecula Heatwave

TEMECULA, CA — As the region's first widespread heatwave of the season continues this week, officials are warning that the hot weather is likely to bring poor air quality to Temecula.

An Ozone Advisory is in effect for much of Los Angeles, Riverside, Orange and San Bernardino counties through Thursday at 8 p.m. in what the South Coast Air Quality Management District is calling a "multi-day extreme ozone (smog) event."

The SCAQMD has warned that the Air Quality Index will reach "Unhealthy" levels in parts of the Southland — including portions of the Santa Clarita, San Gabriel and San Bernardino valleys — while air quality that is "Moderate" and "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" will be more widespread.

Ozone levels are expected to be lower in coastal areas.

In Temecula, air quality is forecast to be Moderate on Wednesday. A heat advisory was issued for Temecula, with temperatures expected to soar into the mid-90s this week.

The AQI is likely to reach the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" category or higher in inland parts of the South Coast Air Basin — including Lake Elsinore, Corona, Hemet, and Pasadena — as well as in the Coachella Valley, according to the Air Quality Management District.

When air quality is in the "Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups" range (101-150), the general public is unlikely to be affected. But people with heart or lung disease, children, older adults, and people who are active outdoors may be sensitive and therefore at greater risk. People in the sensitive groups should reduce prolonged or heavy exertion, according to the SCAQMD.

Forecasters predict the heat wave will reach its peak on Wednesday and Thursday, with inland valleys experiencing temperatures between 95 to 103 degrees. Desert areas are expected to be even hotter, reaching between 100 and 105 degrees, while inland coastal regions, including downtown Los Angeles, will see highs approaching 90 degrees.