Smoke from Pickett Fire Triggers Air Quality Advisory for North Bay Residents

North Bay residents, particularly those in Sonoma and Napa counties, are urged to take precautions as an Air Quality Advisory has been issued for Tuesday, warning of smoke impacts from the ongoing Pickett Fire. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) released the advisory, emphasizing the potential for unhealthy air conditions across the region.

The smoke plumes originate from the Pickett Fire, currently burning fiercely in Mendocino County.

Prevailing winds are expected to push this smoke directly into the North Bay area throughout the day. While the primary impact zone is the North Bay, there's a possibility that smoke could drift into other parts of the Bay Area, depending on changes in wind patterns and the fire's behavior.

Although this is an Air Quality Advisory, and not a 'Spare the Air' Alert, the BAAQMD stresses the importance of heeding the warning.

Residents, especially those with pre-existing respiratory conditions, the elderly, and young children, are particularly vulnerable to the adverse effects of smoke inhalation. These groups should be extra vigilant and follow recommended guidelines.

Authorities advise all residents in affected areas to minimize their exposure to the smoke.

This includes staying indoors as much as possible, keeping windows and doors tightly closed to prevent smoke intrusion, and setting air conditioning or heating systems to recirculate air rather than drawing it from outside. Outdoor activities, especially strenuous ones, should be avoided until the advisory is lifted and air quality improves.

Should outdoor visibility significantly decrease due to smoke, indicating very high concentrations of particulate matter, it's a clear sign that air quality is at an unhealthy level.

In such situations, following these protective measures becomes even more critical. The BAAQMD continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as conditions evolve.