Air quality advisory for smoke in the far South Bay extended through Wednesday

Satellite imagery shows that smoke is being transported southeast of the Santa Clara Valley region into San Benito County.

The Air District will be closely monitoring air quality throughout the region for smoke impacts from the Crews Fire. Currently, impacts include smoky skies, localized elevated particle pollution and the smell of smoke.

If the smell of smoke is present, it is important that Bay Area residents protect their health by avoiding exposure. If possible, stay inside with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside, if temperatures allow. It is also recommended that those impacted by smoke set their air conditioning units and car vent systems to re-circulate to prevent outside air from moving inside.

Smoke can irritate the eyes and airways, causing coughing, a dry scratchy throat and irritated sinuses. Elevated particulate matter in the air can trigger wheezing in those who suffer from asthma, emphysema or COPD. Elderly persons, children and individuals with respiratory illnesses are particularly susceptible to elevated air pollution levels and should take extra precautions to avoid exposure.

Check the Air District's Current Air Quality web page for real-time air quality readings.

View press release(255 Kb PDF, 1 pg, posted 7/7/2020).