LAS VEGAS (FOX5) — Clark County’s Division of Air Quality issued a smoke advisory Sunday, Aug. 30, as smoke from wildfires in coastal California drifts into Southern Nevada.
Air quality forecasters said the smoke is increasing levels of particulate matter pollution in the region. Officials said residents should take precautions.
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Health risks from smoke exposure
Smoke contains small particulates and other pollutants that can aggravate respiratory diseases and contribute to ground-level ozone formation, according to the advisory. Exposure to smoke can cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath, even in healthy people.
The advisory states that, according to the EPA, people most sensitive to elevated particulates and ozone include those with respiratory problems, cardiac disease, young children and senior citizens. The advisory recommends residents with medical conditions that make them sensitive to air quality consult a physician.
Tips to limit exposure
The advisory lists the following recommendations:
- Stay indoors when smoke is visible or smelled.
- Keep windows and doors closed.
- Limit outdoor exertion on days with high levels of fine particulates in the air, since exercise increases the amount of particulates inhaled.
- Consider changing indoor air filters if they are dirty.
How to stay updated
Clark County’s Department of Environment and Sustainability monitors air pollution through a network of sites across the Las Vegas Valley. Data is reported here.
The county said residents can also stay informed through:
- Twitter/X
- Daily text/email alerts at enviroflash
- The AIRNow mobile app
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