Officials are urging more than 300,000 residents in Southern California to avoid lighting candles and other sources of indoor air pollution as high winds have stirred up dangerous levels of dust, triggering an air quality alert that remains in effect through early Friday morning.
Why It Matters
With particle pollution reaching levels considered harmful by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD), the health of thousands across Southern California is at risk. The alert spans cities including Palm Springs, Indio, and La Quinta-regions frequented by tourists and home to large populations of older adults and outdoor workers. Poor indoor air practices during this period, like using candles or incense, can worsen already unhealthy conditions indoors.
What to Know
The National Weather Service (NWS) broadcasted the alert from the South Coast AQMD on Wednesday afternoon, warning that windblown dust has significantly elevated fine particle levels in the air. These pollutants are small enough to penetrate deep into the lungs and even enter the bloodstream, contributing to serious health effects such as asthma attacks, heart disease, and lung infections.
The alert is in effect until 7 a.m. on Friday. Health officials emphasize that the effects of exposure can vary based on time, place, and individual health status. However, those with pre-existing heart or lung conditions, children, older adults, and people who are pregnant are particularly vulnerable.
Residents are being told to avoid lighting candles, burning incense, using fireplaces, or grilling-activities that can increase indoor particle pollution. Instead, people are advised to keep windows and doors closed, run air purifiers if available, and use air conditioning units that recirculate indoor air. If staying cool is necessary, officials recommend avoiding swamp coolers or whole-house fans that draw air from outside…