5 Freeway north of LA is under an air quality alert which was reported by the National Weather Service on Friday at 8:22 a.m. The alert is in effect until Saturday Aug. 9, at 8 p.m.
The NWS Los Angeles/Oxnard CA adds to expect, "The South Coast AQMD has issued an air quality alert due to harmful levels of ozone pollution."
"Ozone air pollution can cause serious health problems, including trouble breathing, asthma attacks, and lung damage. Everyone can be affected, but sensitive groups such as people with lung disease, older adults, people who are pregnant, children, and those who spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk," the NWS said.
The full list of affected locations includes:
When an air quality alert is in effect, following the NWS guidance is pivotal. Here are some simple tips from the NWS for safeguarding your well-being:
Seek shelter indoors when possible:
Whenever possible, seek refuge indoors, especially if you grapple with respiratory concerns, health issues, or belong to the senior or child demographic
Minimize outdoor exposure:
When venturing outside is unavoidable, restrict your time outdoors solely to essential activities. Reducing exposure is paramount.
Cut back on pollution-inducing activities:
Be conscious of activities that contribute to pollution, such as driving cars, using gas-powered lawnmowers, or relying on motorized vehicles. Curtail their use during air quality alerts.
No open burning:
Resist the urge to burn debris or any other materials during an air quality alert. This practice only adds to the air pollution problem.
Stay informed:
Stay updated by tuning in to NOAA Weather Radio or your preferred weather news outlet. Staying informed helps you make wise choices regarding outdoor activities during air quality alerts.
Prioritize respiratory health:
If you have respiratory problems or underlying health conditions, exercise extra caution. These conditions can increase your vulnerability to adverse effects from poor air quality.
By adhering to the recommendations from the NWS, you can enhance your safety during air quality alerts and reduce your exposure to potentially harmful pollutants. Stay vigilant, stay protected, and prioritize your health above all else.