Local air pollution officials are warning residents about the dangers of gusty winds blowing dust with unhealthy concentrations of particulate matter.
A health caution is in effect through tonight for Madera, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Tulare, Kings, Fresno, and the valley portion of Kern counties.
Winds may create areas of localized dust with particulate matter 10 microns and smaller (PM10). Exposure to particulate pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, trigger asthma attacks and bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections, San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District officials said.
People with heart or lung disease should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of particulate exposure. Older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure or heavy exertion, depending on their local conditions, officials said...