Weather alerts in California

* WHAT...The South Coast AQMD has issued an air quality alert due to increased fine particle pollution from wildfire smoke. Visit https://www.aqmd.gov/alertinfo to check current and forecasted air quality levels. * WHERE...in the areas of San Clemente, Dana Point, San Juan Capistrano, and Laguna Niguel. Levels of particle pollution can vary by time and location depending on fire activity and local weather conditions. * WHEN...from 4 PM Friday to 10 AM Saturday. * IMPACTS...Particles in wildfire smoke can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes, asthma attacks, and difficulty breathing. Everyone can be affected, but people with lung or heart disease, older adults, people who are pregnant, children, and those who spend a lot of time outdoors are at greater risk.

What to do: To protect your health, if you smell or see smoke: * Remain indoors with windows and doors closed * Avoid intense outdoor physical activity * Run your air conditioner and/or an air purifier * If you must be outdoors, keep the time brief and wear a well- fitting N-95 mask * Do not use whole house fans or swamp coolers that bring in outside air if you have other methods to stay cool * Avoid other sources of pollution such as fireplaces, candles, incense, grilling, and gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment For the latest air quality forecasts and information, visit the website at aqmd.gov.