Wolf Fire smoke continues to affect the Coachella Valley
Luis Avila
DESERT HOT SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – Smoke from the Wolf Fire continues to push into the Coachella Valley, prompting health warnings for residents across the region.
The South Coast AQMD issued a smoke advisory until 6 PM on Monday. Officials said fine particle pollution, or PM 2.5, reached potentially unhealthy levels for sensitive groups, including older adults, children and pregnant women.
Short-term exposure to smoke can cause coughing, wheezing, and eye and throat irritation for healthy individuals, but long-term or heavy exposure can lead to more serious health problems like heart attacks, strokes, and even premature death, especially for those with existing conditions.
John Stoneham, respiratory therapist at Desert Care Network, says anyone can be at risk of complications as a result of poor air quality.
“Youth… think that ‘I’m healthy and I don’t have to worry about certain things,’ but unfortunately that is not the case. We should all be mindful about what is going into our lungs. It’s not like you can see every single thing in the air.”
John Stoneham, Desert Care Network respiratory therapist
But it’s not just smoke presenting a problem for residents, Stoneham says Monday’s gusty winds are making a bad situation worse.
“With the wind, blowing everything all types of directions, it becomes more invisible and hit you quicker than you realize.”
John Stoneham, Desert Care Network respiratory therapist
Residents are being advised to reduce outdoor activity, stay indoors, but if you have to go outside, monitor air quality and wear an N95 mask.
Stay with News Channel 3 for more.