Photos: Getty Images
Due to the multiple firework displays throughout Southern California, an air quality advisory has now been issued. After a night of illegal and sanctioned firework displays across SoCal, officials are now warning that the fireworks have left high levels of particulate matter in the air.
According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District,
"July 4 and July 5 are typically amongst the worst days of the year for fine particulate matter levels in the South Coast Air Basin."
The Inland Empire, San Gabriel Valley, and Pomona Valley had the worst air pollution, Monday morning. These areas were all listed under the "very unhealthy" category. When a city or cities are listed under this category it means that the air quality index was so high that everyone in that or surrounding areas are at risk of experiencing serious health effects.
Breathing in this quality of air can lead to various respiratory and cardiovascular issues. These issues can include coughing, asthma, heart attacks, decreased lung function, and even difficulty breathing.
Areas like the San Fernando Valley, Arcadia, Pasadena, Glendale, Baldwin Park, and Chino Hills were listed as having "unhealthy" air quality. Officials are warning that residents of those areas may begin to experience some health effects, while residents with underlying health conditions may experience more serious health effects.
Citizens that may experience heart or lung disease, have children or older family members are being urged to take the necessary precautions to avoid any potential health effects that can be caused by the air quality. Officials suggest to avoid all outdoor physical activity and to avoid any heavy exertion on Monday.
Regulators have also said that due to the poor air quality, it is recommended that the public avoid ALL wood burning, as this could contribute to worse air quality around SoCal.