A South Coast Air Quality Management District smoke advisory, warning of the potential impact of smoke from the Bouquet Fire, will remain in effect until at least 8 p.m., authorities said Sunday.
The agency said stated the smoke is expected to impact the Santa Clarita Valley, the I-5 corridor and the Angeles National Forest.
“[The smoke] has primarily stayed well above the surface during the afternoon of Oct. 3 and traveled toward the west due to the Santa Ana winds. This advisory remains in effect until Sunday … at 8 p.m. Smoke impacts will depend on fire activity, containment efforts and the weather,” the agency stated.
“Wildfire smoke is a mixture of small particles, gases and water vapor. The primary health concern is the small particles, which can cause burning eyes, runny nose, scratchy throat, headaches and illness (i.e., bronchitis), according to the SCAQMD. “However, people at higher risk include children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with heart or lung conditions or weakened immune systems” who are susceptible to more severe effects such as wheezing, coughing, fatigue, and/or chest pain.
The Bouquet Fire was reported at 2:16 p.m. Saturday in the 34800 block of Bouquet Canyon Road and has so far burned 1,044 acres, prompted evacuation orders and a road closure. It was 30% contained as of early Sunday.
Smoke from the fire was expected to have the greatest impact overnight through 7 a.m. Sunday, “and may reach Unhealthy or higher Air Quality Index (AQI) levels at times,” SCAQMD officials said.
The Los Angeles County Public Health Department has also issued an advisory.
“Predicting where ash or soot from a fire will travel, or how winds will impact air quality, is difficult, so it’s important for everyone to stay aware of the air quality in your area, make plans, and take action to protect your health and your family’s health,” said Muntu Davis, Los Angeles County’s public health officer.
`Smoke and ash can harm everyone, even those who are healthy. However, people at higher risk include children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with heart or lung conditions or weakened immune systems.”
Health officials urged everyone in areas with visible smoke, smoke odors or unhealthy air quality to avoid unnecessary outdoor exposure and to limit physical exertion.
Muntu also advised schools and recreational programs that are in session in smoke-impacted areas to review and follow California Department of Education guidelines for schools during wildfire smoke events.
He also said to avoid leaving pets outdoors, particularly at night. Pets should be brought into an indoor location, such as an enclosed garage or a house.
If dogs or cats appear to be in respiratory distress, they should be taken to an animal hospital immediately. Symptoms of respiratory distress for dogs include panting and/or an inability to catch their breath. Symptoms for cats are less noticeable, but may include panting and/or an inability to catch their breath.
Anyone wishing to stay updated with real-time/forecasted Air Quality locally can download the South Coast AQMD mobile app at aqmd.gov/mobileapp or go to aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/air-quality-forecasts.