Officials have issued an air advisory for this weekend, as smoke from multiple wildfires billows over the Bay Area, making it difficult for residents to breathe.
Residents who smell smoke are urged to remain indoors and keep windows and doors shut until the smoke lifts.
Authorities issued the Air Quality Advisory due to expected northerly winds that will likely spread smoke from several active fires throughout the Bay Area.
The advisory, the second highest alert for air quality, is normally posted when unhealthy air conditions make it difficult to breathe and pose a particular health risk to those with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, youth, and those with respiratory issues, according to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.
According to the state's air-quality website, the air over large swathes of Northern California is rated as "unhealthy" to "hazardous."
To protect yourself and loved ones, keep indoor air clean by running the air conditioner on recycle. Remember to keep the fresh air intake closed to prevent smoke from getting inside.
If you don't have an air conditioner, staying indoors is not recommended in extremely hot weather. Instead, try to find an inside, air-conditioned place, such as a library, museum or movie theater.
Keep yourself updated on the air quality in your neighborhood by checking the state's air quality readings here. Updates are provided in real time.