Large areas of Southern California are under a smoke advisory through Thursday night as wildfires burn in the area.
According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District, onshore winds will push smoke from the Sandy Fire into Los Angeles County, affecting residents along the coast and from the San Fernando Valley to Arcadia, where the air could become unhealthy for sensitive groups.
A smoke advisory that went into effect Wednesday afternoon now extends until at least 10 p.m. Thursday, according to a news release from Los Angeles County Public Health.
Other fires in the region are also affecting residents of Southern California.
The Bain and Verona fires in Riverside County have dumped wildfire smoke into several valleys in the Inland Empire, including Perris, Temecula, Riverside and San Jacinto, according to the AQMD website.
Widespread smoke effects are also expected in the Los Angeles Basin, Catalina Island and the Coachella Valley.
Overnight, smoke from the Santa Rosa and Sandy Island fires is expected to reach the coast and settle over the coast with little wind to clear the air.
“The impacts of smoke may vary over time and by location. If you see ash or smell smoke, take precautions to protect your health,” the advisory says.
The Sandy Fire was 30% contained and had reached 2,115 acres as of Thursday morning.
The Bain Fire was 39% contained and at 1,456 acres as of Thursday morning. The Verona Fire, also in Riverside County, was 38% contained and had burned 600 acres.
The Santa Rosa Island Fire was 44% contained and affected 17,554 acres.
Authorities hope to prevent the health risks posed by wildfires.
The Sandy fire has already surrounded the Santa Susana Field Laboratory, a former research complex now used for rocket engine testing and nuclear research.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said it has been collaborating with other government agencies to respond in case the fires spread to the 2,850-acre site.
“Anytime there is a wildfire, smoke protection is critical,” said Nichole Quick, senior medical advisor for the county health department. “Same for this event. There is a particular sensitivity related to Santa Susana right now… but so far, that facility has not been affected by the fire.”
Staff writer Tony Briscoe contributed to this report.
