BAY AREA, CA — Residents of the Bay Area are advised to take precautions on Monday and Tuesday as the region experiences degraded air quality caused by smoke drifting from wildfires burning in Canada.
The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) issued an advisory warning that smoky and hazy conditions are expected, with air quality potentially reaching unhealthy levels in some locations. The smoke originates from wildfires currently raging in the Canadian provinces of Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba.
“Conditions can change rapidly and the amount and location of smoke at ground level is hard to predict,” the district noted in its advisory.
Wildfire smoke contains fine particulate matter and other harmful pollutants that pose health risks even during short-term exposure. The district urges residents to limit their outdoor activities, especially vulnerable groups such as children, elderly individuals, and those with respiratory conditions including asthma, emphysema, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Exposure to the smoke can cause irritation of the eyes and airways, coughing, scratchy throats, and sinus discomfort. For those with underlying lung conditions, elevated particulate matter can trigger wheezing and difficulty breathing.
To minimize exposure, residents are advised to stay indoors with windows and doors closed. Using indoor air filtration systems or visiting locations with filtered air — such as libraries or shopping malls designated as Clean Air Centers — can provide relief. Additionally, setting car ventilation systems to recirculate air can help reduce intake of smoky outdoor air.
While air quality levels are expected to remain below the threshold for a Spare the Air alert, officials emphasize the importance of vigilance and preparedness as conditions evolve.
Real-time updates on smoke pollution can be accessed through the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Fire and Smoke Map at https://fire.airnow.gov/.