Southerly winds with gusts up to 45 mph are expected early Tuesday, Nov. 17 and continuing into the evening, creating blowing dust and elevated concentrations of particulate matter 10 microns and smaller (PM10) Valley-wide, especially in the counties of Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare and the Valley portion of Kern. As a result, local air pollution officials are issuing an air quality alert for the entire San Joaquin Valley due to PM10 from wind-blown dust.

The District is advising San Joaquin Valley residents to use caution and avoid exposure to blowing dust caused by windy conditions

Windy conditions in areas where soil is exceptionally dry often creates unhealthy concentrations of (PM10). Exposure to particulate pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, trigger asthma attacks and bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections.

Where conditions warrant, people with heart or lung disease should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of particulate exposure. Additionally, older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure or heavy exertion, depending on their local conditions.

For more information, visit www.valleyair.org or call the District office in Modesto at 209-557-6400.