See how bad the air is in Fresno area? Here’s when it’ll be safe again

Multiple wildfires burning throughout California are sending billowing clouds of toxic smoke into the central San Joaquin Valley, prompting a warning to residents from the air pollution control district.

Blazes near the region are reported in the Coalinga area, and near Lebec and Patterson. The National Weather Service forecasts that the air quality will not improve until the fires are extinguished.

The health caution was issued to residents in Fresno, Merced, Madera, Kings and Tulare counties. The residents were warned to reduce exposure to particulate matter by remaining indoors as much as possible.

The air warning will remain in place until the fires are extinguished.

Pollution can trigger asthma attacks, aggravate chronic bronchitis and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Those with respiratory conditions, including COVID-19, young children and the elderly are especially vulnerable to the effects of the pollution. Common cloth and paper masks may not be effective against the smoke.

For more information, go to www.valleyair.org.

This story was originally published August 20, 2020 at 9:10 AM with the headline "See how bad the air is in Fresno area? Here’s when it’ll be safe again."