Strong southeasterly winds are blowing in the southern portion of the Valley today ahead of a storm system expected to bring rain to the Valley late tonight and into the week. Winds are anticipated to persist through the night, with blowing dust and increased PM10 concentrations possible in certain areas across the southern part of the San Joaquin Valley including Bakersfield. Consequently, the District has issued an Air Quality Advisory for the southern San Joaquin Valley, including Kings, Tulare, and Kern counties. Residents in affected areas are advised to remain indoors to minimize exposure to particulate matter (PM) emissions.
Strong winds often cause localized blowing dust in areas where soils are exceptionally dry—creating unhealthy concentrations of particulate matter 10 microns and smaller (PM10). Exposure to particulate pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, trigger asthma attacks and bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections.
Where conditions warrant, people with heart or lung disease should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of particulate exposure. Additionally, older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure or heavy exertion, depending on their local conditions.
To monitor PM10 levels in your area, visit www.airnow.gov or download the EPA “AirNow” app. For more information, visit valleyair.org/protectyourself or call a District office in Fresno (559-230-6000), Modesto (209-557-6400) or Bakersfield (661-392-5500).
