Even though San Francisco is more than an hour’s drive from the epicenter of what’s been called one of the worst firestorms in California state history, the air quality is bad and is expected to get worse through the weekend.
“On Thursday morning, the Environmental Protection Agency’s air quality index for the Bay Area was 160 — higher than Beijing’s current reading of 122. It is classified as ‘unhealthy’ and is a level 4 out of 6, with 1 being ‘good’ and 6 being ‘hazardous.'”1
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0bYu649MuQo
But with the worsen weekend weather, the air quality is expected to slide into the “very unhealthy” category (a level of 5 out of 6). The EPA has warned area residents to “reduce prolonged or heavy exertion,”1 especially children, older adults and those with heart or lung disease and to just stay indoors if possible (or totally leave the area until the forecast improves).
“In and around wine country in Santa Rosa and Napa Valley, strong, dry winds helped unite what began as a string of separate fires, pulling the blazes across swaths of fields and freeways. Officials estimate that more than 2,000 homes, businesses, and other structures in eight counties have now been devastated by the fires. At least 29 people are dead, and the death toll is expected to rise as rescue workers clear through the rubble. More than 460 people have been reported missing in Sonoma County.”1
“High soot readings” (aka particulates or PM2.5) are the most concerning to regulators because of their ability to penetrate and lodge deep inside the lungs. With the PM2.5 levels at “very elevated,” everyone is worried.
If you have respiratory issues (like asthma) please be extra cautious when you venture outdoors or just stay inside all together.
