To view current air quality in your neighborhood, download the South Coast AQMD app or visit www.aqmd.gov/AQImap.

A multi-day extreme ozone event is forecasted for the region as a heat wave continues to take hold. The National Weather Service has responded by issuing Heat Advisories and Extreme Heat Warnings, signaling community members to take precautions.

According to air quality forecasts, the Air Quality Index (AQI) is expected to reach levels categorized as Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups or higher in inland areas of the South Coast Air Basin—specifically Lake Elsinore, Corona, Hemet, and Pasadena—as well as throughout the Coachella Valley. The Santa Clarita Valley, parts of the San Gabriel Valley, and the San Bernardino Valley are also likely to experience Unhealthy or worse air quality from Tuesday through Thursday. Coastal areas, however, may see lower ozone levels.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) has assured residents they will provide updates should predictions indicate that elevated ozone levels may persist beyond Thursday.

In light of the impending poor air quality due to ozone pollution, the public is advised to monitor air quality levels closely and limit outdoor activities accordingly. Health recommendations will be provided for each AQI level. Additionally, residents are urged to refrain from using gasoline-powered lawn and garden equipment until the evening, conserve electricity, and set air conditioners to higher temperatures. It is also recommended to postpone trips to gas stations and minimize the use of household chemicals until after sunset.

For more information, see the EPA Guide for Ozone Pollution (PDF).

South Coast AQMD is the regulatory agency responsible for improving air quality for large areas of Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley. For news, air quality alerts, event updates and more, please visit us at www.aqmd.gov, download our award-winning app, or follow us on Facebook, X(formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram.

As the community grapples with these challenging conditions, awareness and proactive measures will be key to navigating the heat and air quality concerns.