Photo: PATRICK T. FALLON / AFP / Getty Images
The effects of wildfires in northern California are leaving their effects on air quality in the Los Angeles metropolitan area.
According to the South Coast AQMD agencysmoke from the fires is blown into the South Coast airshed, causing elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and a smoke advisory has been issued for the Los Angeles area.
It is expected that the impact of Poor air quality persists until Sunday nightaccording to authorities.
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According to reports, PM2.5 levels may approach or exceed “unhealthy for sensitive groups” levels at timesand the highest levels of particles were predicted from this Sunday morning, conditions that will continue until the afternoon or evening.
“Even if you don’t smell smoke, there may be smoke in your area,” the South Coast AQMD agency said in a statement.
Actions Southern California residents can take during periods of poor air quality include: limit outdoor exposure, stay indoors with closed windows and doors if possible; avoid vigorous physical activities.
Keep reading: Forest fire smoke: learning to live with poor air quality
The use of air conditioning or an air purifier is also recommended (South Coast AQMD recommends avoiding the use of swamp coolers or whole-house fans that can spread contaminated outside air), as well as reduce sources of outdoor air pollution, such as burning wood in a fireplace, candles, or grilling.
For more information on particle pollution levels, you can consult this link.
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