Hazy skies are likely to continue to loom over Gilroy as the
Lockheed wildfire burning northwest of Santa Cruz rages on.
Hazy skies are likely to continue to loom over Gilroy as the Lockheed wildfire burning northwest of Santa Cruz rages on.
The level of particulate matter hanging in the air is slightly over normal levels for this time of year but does not exceed federal health standards, said Lisa Fasano, a spokeswoman for the Bay Area Air Quality Management District. Yet, compared to this day a year ago – though no fires occurred in South County around that time – today’s air quality is better, she reported.
The tiny particles that blot out the view of the mountains from downtown Gilroy are about one-tenth the size of a human hair. Some are always in the air from smoke, road dust and exhaust and can often be smelled before they’re seen.
Rather than posing a health risk, the particulate will be more of an irritant to the eyes and throat, Fasano said. Residents, especially those with asthma or other lung ailments, should avoid strenuous outdoor activity and stay indoors with windows and doors closed and air conditioners set to recirculate.
“It might not be wise to go for a jog or a bike ride this afternoon,” Fasano said. “Our noses and eyes are the best sources to determine whether the conditions are problematic.”
Transport winds are expected to remain unchanged today so the current pattern of smoke and ash impacts will likely continue. Saturday and Sunday winds are expected to become more northerly and possibly northeasterly, which would transport the smoke out to sea, according to the Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollution Control District.
