High temperatures, low relative humidity levels, ample "fuel" vegetation and drought are contributing to growing wildfires in Southern California. By mid-day, August 31, the Station Fire had burned over 100,000 acres of Angeles National Forest. This is one of four major fires currently burning in Southern California.
Wildfires and Health
Wildfires have resulted in poor air quality in Southern California over the past few days and the U.S. EPA reports that unhealthy air quality conditions are expected to persist into mid-week. People in areas directly impacted by smoke should avoid vigorous or strenuous activity - indoors and outdoors. People with respiratory or heart disease, older individuals and children should stay inside. Staying inside with windows closed without air conditioning could be dangerous in extremely hot weather. People who do not have air conditioning should seek alternative shelter.
U.S. Wildfire Information
Including the Southern California Fires, the National Interagency Fire Center reports 20 large, active fires in the Western US, including Arizona, California, Colorado, Oregon, Texas, Utah and Washington.
