Gusty winds over the San Joaquin Valley have prompted local air-pollution officials to issue a health cautionary statement through this evening throughout the air basin: San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare and the Valley portion of Kern counties. Winds are expected to be especially strong in the western and southern portions of the Valley.

Winds may produce areas of localized blowing dust, which can result in unhealthy concentrations of particulate matter 10 microns and smaller. Exposure to particulate pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, trigger asthma attacks and bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections.

Residents in the eight-county area are advised to use caution through this evening, depending on their local conditions. People with heart or lung disease should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of unhealthy air quality. Additionally, older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure or heavy exertion, depending on their local conditions.

Residents can check the nearest air monitor to their location to determine localized conditions. Visit the Real-time Air Advisory Network page on the District’s website to subscribe for free:http://www.valleyair.org/Programs/RAAN/raan_landing.htm.

 For more information, visit www.valleyair.org or call a District office at 557-6400.