LA County Issues Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has issued a Windblown Dust and Ash Advisory in response to strong Santa Ana winds expected to affect the region through Wednesday, January 15, 2025, at 7:00 PM. According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District (South Coast AQMD), the gusty winds may disperse ash from recent wildfire burn scars and generate dust, potentially impacting air quality across Los Angeles County.

Areas of Concern

Communities downwind of recent burn scars in areas such as Palisades, Eaton, and others are expected to be most impacted. For a detailed air quality map specific to Los Angeles County, residents are encouraged to visit the South Coast AQMD website or download their mobile app for real-time updates.

Health Risks and Advisory

Windblown dust and ash contain small particles that can cause irritation or worsen pre-existing health conditions, particularly for:

• Children
• Older adults
• Pregnant individuals
• People with heart or lung conditions

To minimize health risks, LA County Public Health advises residents to take the following precautions:

• Stay Indoors: Keep windows and doors closed. Use an air purifier or run your air conditioning on recirculate to maintain clean indoor air.
• Wear a Mask: If you need to go outside, wear an N95 or P100 mask to protect your lungs from ash and dust particles.
• Secure Loose Items: Bring in or tie down outdoor belongings, such as trash cans or patio furniture, to prevent hazards caused by strong winds.
• Protect Your Eyes: Wear goggles outdoors to shield your eyes from airborne ash and debris.
• Monitor Updates: Stay informed by following local news for the latest weather conditions, air quality updates, and potential evacuation notices.
• Be Prepared: Have an emergency plan in place, including essential supplies and contacts, in case conditions worsen.

Air Quality and Safety

Air quality in some areas may reach levels classified as Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups or worse. Although ash particles are often visible, they may not always affect Air Quality Index (AQI) readings. However, these particles can carry toxic materials and pose significant health risks.

Residents are advised to remain vigilant and monitor air quality conditions in their area. For real-time and forecasted air quality updates, download the South Coast AQMD Mobile App (available here) or visit their website at AQMD.gov. The app and website are also available in Spanish.

Looking Ahead

The strong winds are expected to persist through Wednesday evening but are projected to subside as conditions improve. Until then, LA County officials emphasize the importance of following safety recommendations to protect yourself and your loved ones during this time.

Stay informed, stay prepared, and prioritize safety as our community faces the impacts of these strong winds and airborne hazards.