Air quality advisory for smoke from San Francisco building fire

Smoke from the fire is impacting areas around San Francisco, and winds are shifting, bringing smoke into the East Bay. At the surface, winds are expected to remain onshore across the Bay Area. Smoke impacts will likely improve throughout the day. The Air District will be closely monitoring air quality throughout the region for smoke impacts from the fire.

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 page for real-time air quality readings.

View press release(252 Kb PDF, 1 pg, posted 28/07/2020).