A windblown dust advisory for the Coachella Valley was extended Wednesday, with forecasters predicting wind gusts up to 50 mph on Thursday.
The advisory was originally issued from 1 p.m. Tuesday until 10 a.m. Thursday, according to the South Coast Air Quality Management District. However, the agency later extended the advisory until 11:59 p.m. Thursday.
The affected areas include Palm Springs, Cathedral City and Desert Hot Springs.
Air quality levels reached hazardous in Northern Cathedral City on Tuesday and Wednesday and unhealthy levels were reached in Indio and Mecca on Tuesday.
Officials advised residents in the affected areas to limit their exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seeking alternate shelter. Additionally, residents were urged to avoid rigorous physical activity and to run air conditioning and/or an air purifier.
Air quality can vary by hour and location depending on wind conditions. Current air quality can be found at aqmd.gov/AQImap.
North Gene Autry Trail between Salvia Road and Via Escuela was shut down at about 6 a.m. Wednesday, and North Indian Canyon Drive at the Wash was closed roughly 30 minutes later, according to the Palm Springs Police Department.
North Indian Canyon Drive reopened an hour later.