An advisory has been released for areas spanning from the Malibu Coast to Santa Monica, extending eastward to Pasadena until 5 p.m. on Wednesday. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has indicated that smoke from ongoing fires is expected to continue moving southwest towards Malibu, exacerbated by Santa Ana winds causing high levels of windblown dust across the region.
Officials have cautioned that smoke from the Eaton Fire is likely to have the most significant impact on the western San Gabriel Valley on Wednesday morning. They have predicted that fine particulate matter, specifically PM 2.5, will persist at 'unhealthy' levels in Altadena, Pasadena, and nearby regions.
PM 2.5 is a minuscule yet hazardous pollutant that, when inhaled, can penetrate deep into lung tissue and even enter the bloodstream. This pollutant has been associated with various health issues, including asthma, heart disease, chronic bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments.
Authorities are advising individuals who plan to spend time outdoors to utilize N95 masks or respirators to provide some level of protection against the harmful effects of PM 2.5. It is crucial for residents in the affected areas to take necessary precautions to safeguard their health and well-being during this period of heightened air pollution.
