More than 50,000 residents in California were advised to stay indoors because of dangerous air pollution levels, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
The National Weather Service said the high levels of air pollution stem from wind-driven dust.
Why It Matters
Dangerous air pollution levels pose serious and potentially long-term health risks. Fine particle pollution—known as PM2.5—can penetrate deep into the lungs, exacerbating conditions like asthma and increasing susceptibility to lung infections.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) cautions that high levels of particle pollution can cause serious health issues, particularly for sensitive groups including people with heart or lung disease, the elderly, pregnant women, children, and those spending extended periods outdoors.
What To Know
The EPA’s AirNow pollution map shows a large area in the Coachella Valley facing “unhealthy” levels of pollution in the “red” category on the Air Quality Index (AQI). Towns inside the affected region include Palm Springs, Cathedral City and Thousand Palms.
A red zone on the AirNow map indicates that air quality has deteriorated to such a point that even individuals not considered part of at-risk groups could start experiencing negative health effects.
The advisory was in effect from 2 p.m. PDT Friday through 8 a.m. PDT Saturday.
To protect their health, residents are being asked to stay indoors as much as possible, keep windows and doors closed, and use air conditioners and air purifiers to maintain clean indoor air. Authorities warn against using whole-house fans or swamp coolers that might draw in polluted air, and they also advise avoiding burning candles, using fireplaces, or grilling, which can further degrade indoor air quality.
Residents can also help minimize the spread of outdoor dust and particle pollution by carpooling, telecommuting, reducing vehicle trips, and using public transportation. Slowing down when driving on unpaved roads and stabilizing loose soils can further contribute to reducing airborne particles
What People Are Saying
The National Weather Service (NWS) said in a statement: “Particle pollution can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems such as asthma attacks, heart and lung disease symptoms, and increased risk of lung infections.
“Everyone can be affected, but sensitive groups such as people with lung or heart disease, older adults, people who are pregnant, children, and those who spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk.”
What Happens Next
Residents can stay updated through the South Coast AQMD’s website and mobile app, as conditions may change rapidly.
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