The ongoing Garnet Fire in Fresno County and other California wildfires are producing smoke that is drifting over the Valley and creating air quality impacts in nearby foothill communities. A large plume now extends across the San Joaquin Valley, and weather patterns through the weekend may pull that smoke down to the Valley floor. Valley residents impacted by the smoke are advised to stay indoors to minimize exposure to ozone and particulate matter (PM) emissions. The potential for increased ozone and PM2.5 exists until the fires are extinguished.
The District strongly urges the public to take health-protective actions to stay safe when smoke from wildfires affects the Valley, including following air-quality recommendations when making decisions about outdoor activities. Additional health-protective actions include:
- Planning ahead and creating a clean air room
- Stay indoors
- Use portable air cleaners or high-efficiency filters to remove fine particles from the air
- Visiting a Clean Air Center. Similar to the Valley’s cooling centers, the District’s Clean Air Centers provide relief when wildfires & smoke events occur
Wildfire smoke contains particulate matter (PM), which can trigger asthma attacks, aggravate chronic bronchitis, and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. Those with existing respiratory conditions are especially susceptible to the adverse health effects of this form of pollution. Anyone experiencing poor air quality due to wildfire smoke should move indoors to a filtered, air-conditioned environment with windows closed and contact their primary care provider for more information.
The public can check the District’s Wildfire Prevention & Response page at www.valleyair.org/wildfires for information about any wildfires affecting the Valley. In addition, anyone can follow air quality conditions by downloading the free “Valley Air” app on their mobile device or by visiting the EPA Fire and Smoke Map.
