Residents in California are being urged to stay indoors due to poor air quality caused by dust from windstorms. This warning affects about 50,000 people in parts of Southern California. While one warning was lifted on Saturday morning, an advisory was quickly issued for the Coachella Valley, including the popular area of Palm Springs.
The National Weather Service and the Air Quality Management District (AQMD) report that the recent air pollution is due to high levels of wind-driven dust. The AQMD has expressed concern about the health risks associated with this pollution, especially for sensitive groups such as those with heart or lung diseases, the elderly, pregnant women, children, and anyone spending a lot of time outdoors.
To protect themselves, the AQMD advises residents to remain indoors when pollution levels are high. They recommend keeping windows closed, avoiding strenuous outdoor activities, running air conditioners and air purifiers, and being cautious when driving on dirt roads to minimize dust.
For those wanting to keep track of air quality, AQMD has a website featuring a map that shows current conditions. Areas marked in red indicate “unhealthy” air quality.
This issue of air quality is not limited to California. Similar warnings have been issued in other states, especially during wildfires when air conditions can become dangerous for vulnerable populations.
Residents in rural areas may notice the dust storms without needing to check reports. Just six months ago, a massive dust storm swept through central California, capturing attention with stunning videos shared online.
The AQMD continues to encourage southern Californians to monitor their website for updates on air quality conditions and any further developments.