The South Coast AQMD says its sensors are showing elevated particulate matter concentrations throughout the entire San Fernando Valley, areas west of central LA, and coastal areas west of the 110-Freeway.
The agency’s monitors in Reseda, North Hollywood, and Pacoima are also showing elevated concentrations, resulting in an “Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups” advisory.
Smoke from the Saddleridge Fire rises on Oct. 11, 2019 near Porter Ranch, Calif. The fast moving wind-driven fire has burned more than 4,000 acres and at least 23,000 homes are under mandatory evacuation orders. (Mario Tama/Getty Images)
Advisories have been discontinued for the Sandalwood, Reche, and Wolf fires blazing in Riverside County.
South Coast AQMD says that if the fire continues to generate smoke on Saturday afternoon through Sunday morning, it could impact portions of the San Fernando Valley and possibly the Pasadena area, leading to unhealthy air quality.
People with existing health issues like asthma or heart disease are most vulnerable to the increase of smoke and ash in the air, but it can also affect those with no preexisting conditions, said Dr. Kirsten Mewaldt of Dignity Health Northridge.
“I think everyone is probably feeling a little off,” Mewaldt said. “I know my lungs feel tight just breathing in the air that we have. But for someone who has a history of asthma, COPD, heart disease, they should just pay very close attention to their symptoms.”
