Los Angeles and Orange counties were under a smoke advisory due to multiple large brush fires that were still raging this evening.
The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued the alert, which was in effect until 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, but could be extended depending on developments overnight and early Wednesday.
Portions of Ventura, Riverside and San Bernardino counties were under the same order.
Southland residents were smelling smoke in the air Tuesday evening from the Sandy Fire, which burned close to 1,700 acres in Simi Valley and was just 5% contained late Tuesday.
Two substantial fire were burning in Riverside County: The Bain Fire in Jurupa Valley was mapped at 1,374 acres and was just 10% contained, and the Verona Fire in Homeland had scorched 439 acres.
Additionally, the Santa Rosa Island Fire in Santa Barbara, which broke out Friday and was mapped at 16,942 acres, was also sending smoke into the air over parts of northern Los Angeles County.
The SCAQMD said Orange County and much of LA County were expected to be in the moderate Air Quality Index category or higher, with smoke coming ashore from the Santa Rosa Island Fire. Areas of Los Angeles County adjacent to the Sandy Fire may reach the unhealthy for sensitive groups category or higher.
Depending on fire activity, smoke conditions were expected to improve Wednesday in areas not adjacent to active fires.
Officials advised the following precautions:
— Limit your exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seeking alternate shelter.
— Avoid vigorous physical activity.
— Run your air conditioning and/or an air purifier. If possible, do not use swamp coolers or whole house fans that bring in outside air.
— Avoid burning wood in your fireplace or firepit and minimize sources of indoor air pollution such as candles, incense, pan-frying, and grilling.
— If you must be outside, a properly fit N95 or P100 respirator may provide some protection.