Monterey Wildfire Smoke Prompts Spare The Air Alert Tuesday
SAN FRANCISCO (CBS SF) – The 10th Spare the Air alert of the summer season has been declared for Tuesday in the Bay Area because of unhealthy ozone accumulation, regional air quality officials said.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District issued the alert as a result of persistent hot temperatures and light winds combining with vehicle exhaust and smoke from the large Soberanes Fire that has burned nearly 15,000 acres in Monterey County.
"A week of poor air quality is expected in our region due to high temperatures, stagnant air and smoke from the Soberanes Fire," air district executive director Jack Broadbent said in a statement. "Bay Area residents should avoid exposure to smoke and smog by limiting outdoor activities to protect their health."
• ALSO READ: More Monterey Co. Residents Evacuated As Soberanes Fire Expands
Air district officials are encouraging Bay Area residents to take public transit, carpool, or seek other alternatives to driving alone in a car.
Ozone, otherwise known as smog, can cause throat irritation, congestion, chest pain or other medical problems, and can particularly harm young children, seniors and those with respiratory or heart conditions.
People can find out when a Spare the Air alert is in effect by registering at www.sparetheair.org, calling (800) HELP-AIR, downloading the Spare the Air smartphone app or connecting with Spare the Air on Facebook or Twitter.
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