Cold Summer Finally Gives Way to Late Summer Heat
SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. (KCBS) - The Bay Area is finally getting a taste of normal summer weather, and that has air quality and weather officials sounding the smog and heat alarms.
Today is the first "Spare the Air Day" of what has been a long, cold summer.
Air quality on Monday is expected to be unhealthy, according to the Bay Area Air Quality Management District.
Air quality has been healthy most of the summer because of the unseasonably cool weather, Air District Executive Officer Jack Broadbent stated in a release. Weather on Monday in the Bay Area is expected to be sunny with highs on the coast in the 70s to 80s and inland in the upper 80s to near 100.
Residents are encouraged to drive less and reduce their energy use. There is no free transit and no wood-burning ban in place, Air District officials said.
The Air District also recommends cooking inside -- not outside on the grill -- and to avoid using aerosol spray cleaners, paints and hairspray.
The Air District issues Spare the Air advisories to warn people of unhealthy levels of smog, which can cause throat irritation, congestion and chest pain. High levels of ozone pollution are particularly harmful for young children, seniors and people with respiratory and heart conditions.
