Thousands of residents in California and Arizona have been advised to avoid going outside where possible amid concerns over high air pollution levels, a map produced by AirNow shows.
The map reveals that fine particle (PM2.5) pollution is in the “unhealthy” range on the Air Quality Index (AQI) across a part of northeast California – encompassing Portola and the Plumas National Forest – as of 3 a.m. ET. Another “unhealthy” air quality warning is in force for an area encompassing Casa Grande in Arizona.
At these air pollution levels, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) recommends that sensitive groups avoid long or intense outdoor activities and consider rescheduling moving them indoors.
The EPA also advises that the remainder of the population reduces long or intense activities, and to take more breaks during outdoor activities.
Elevated levels of fine particle pollution can be inhaled unknowingly, triggering health issues ranging from coughing; nose, throat, and eye irritation; and shortness of breath for everyone. It can also worsen existing heart and lung conditions.
This is a developing story. More to follow.