Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Pasadena Sees Lessened Risk as Particle Pollution Advisory Extends to Tuesday

A regional particle pollution advisory remains in effect for Pasadena through 12:30 p.m. Tuesday as smoke from a large Boyle Heights structure fire continues to affect air quality, according to the South Coast AQMD.

The fire, which began around 2:30 p.m. on June 17, prompted the agency to extend its advisory as PM2.5 readings improved across Central and Southeast Los Angeles, the San Gabriel Valley and the San Fernando Valley beginning around 1:00 p.m. Sunday. AQI levels near the fire were still elevated, with Very Unhealthy conditions measured throughout the day in Boyle Heights. Other areas were Good to Moderate for PM2.5.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said the incident is still evolving and continues to monitor the situation.

Residents should follow guidance from responding agencies. Smoke exposure may cause temporary irritation of the eyes, nose, throat and lungs. Individuals experiencing severe or worsening symptoms — including difficulty breathing, chest pain or significant respiratory distress — should seek medical attention immediately.

Public health officials issued the following recommendations for residents in areas where smoke or ash is present:

• Indoor precautions — If you smell smoke or see smoke or ash at ground level, avoid vigorous physical activity and remain indoors with doors and windows closed.
• Air filtration — Run an air purifier if available. Use central HVAC if available and set it to recirculate (do not bring in outdoor air) and keep it running if possible. Use a high-efficiency HVAC filter (MERV 13 or higher if your system allows) and replace it more often during smoke events.
• Avoid outdoor-air systems — Avoid systems that bring in outdoor air, including whole-house fans and swamp coolers (evaporative coolers), during smoke conditions.
• Mask use — Wear an N95 or P100 mask if you must go outside in smoky conditions for long periods of time in areas with heavy smoke or where ash is present.
• Cooling options — If it’s too hot to keep windows and doors closed, go to a public place like a library or shopping center to stay cool and protect yourself from harmful air.
• Home safety — Avoid using fireplaces, candles or vacuums. Clean dusty surfaces with a damp cloth and don’t smoke.
• Medical attention — If you experience symptoms like severe coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain, palpitations, nausea or unusual fatigue, contact your doctor or go to urgent care. For life-threatening symptoms, call 911.
• Ash clean-up guidance — Practice safe clean-up following a fire. Follow the ash clean-up and food safety instructions at the Los Angeles County Public Health wildfire page.

For schools experiencing smoke or ash impacts or located within a South Coast AQMD air quality advisory area, officials advise following applicable emergency alerts, public health guidance and air quality advisories; considering limiting outdoor activities; avoiding vigorous outdoor exercise; providing indoor options during outdoor periods for students and staff who are sensitive to smoke or air pollution; and ensuring HVAC systems are operating properly and equipped with the highest-efficiency compatible filters.

To view current air quality in your neighborhood, visit www.aqmd.gov/AQImap.