Date

Wednesday, October 30, 2019

The Air District is issuing another Spare the Air Alert for smoke tomorrow, Thursday, October 31, for the entire region. While good to moderate air quality is expected through most of the region tomorrow, air quality is forecast to be in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range in Windsor and Santa Rosa. Moderate air quality is expected throughout the rest of the North Bay with areas near the fire still impacted by unhealthy air quality. Air quality should be in the good to moderate range for the rest of the week for most of the Bay Area – which is normal this time of year. 

Spare the Air Status

While most of the Bay Area will experience good to moderate air quality, areas closest to the fire will still be impacted by wildfire smoke. The Kincade Fire continues to generate smoke and Bay Area residents, especially in the North Bay, should remain vigilant to avoid exposure and protect their health.

Spare the Air Alerts are issued when ozone or particulate matter pollution is forecast to reach unhealthy levels. If the smell of smoke is present, it is important that Bay Area residents protect their health by avoiding exposure. If possible, stay inside with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside. If indoor air quality is compromised, an air-cooling center, library, movie theater or other building that has filtered air can provide relief from the smoke. It is also recommended that Bay Area residents set air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate to prevent outside air from moving inside.

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a dry scratchy throat and irritated sinuses. Elevated particulate matter in the air can trigger wheezing in those who suffer from asthma, emphysema or COPD. Elderly persons, children and individuals with respiratory illnesses are particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.

Check here for real-time air quality readings: https://bit.ly/2p7UFgs. To sign up for text alerts, text the word “START” to the number 817-57 or visit www.baaqmd.gov/txtalert.

To find out when a Spare the Air Alert is in effect, residents can register for email AirAlerts at www.sparetheair.org, call 1(800) HELP-AIR, download the Spare the Air App or connect with Spare the Air on Facebook or Twitter.

View press release.

View Wildfire Safety Tips page.

Last Updated: 10/30/2019