Air Alert Issued In San Joaquin County Due to Drift From Kincade Fire

Strong winds are expected to hit Northern California in the coming days, and they could spread unhealthy smoke and dust particles from the Kincade Fire in Sonoma County to communities in the San Joaquin Valley.

The San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District has issued an air quality alert for the week, urging elderly people, young children and those with respiratory conditions to limit their exposure to bad air. 

“If you’re seeing smoke or dust, and you can smell smoke or dust, you’re definitely being impacted and you should stay indoors,” said Cassandra Melching with the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District. “Stay inside where there is filtered air, just so you can take those steps to safeguard your health.”

Wildfire smoke can contain tiny particles that infiltrate the lungs and exacerbate respiratory diseases such asthma. These particles can also increase the risk of heart attack and stroke for people who are already compromised.

The district expects all eight counties in its area, as far north as San Joaquin and as far south as Kern County, to see an impact. Residents can find more information and a tool for tracking air quality here.

For residents who must be outside, health officials say the correct mask can be helpful, but only if it’s properly fitted. The California Department of Public Health recommends the N95 respirator masks, but notes that it can make breathing more difficult and that people with heart and lung problems should consult their doctor before using one. The masks are not recommended for children.