The South Coast Air Quality Management District has issued a smoke advisory for areas affected by the South Fire, mainly in the Lytle Creek area of San Bernardino County.
AQMD warns the South Fire has been actively producing smoke into Wednesday evening, and anyone residing in the advisory area should limit exposure.
As of Wednesday, areas of potential direct smoke impact due to the South Fire included the northwest and central San Bernardino Valley, as well as the west and central San Bernardino Mountains. Parts of Rancho Cucamonga and northeast Ontario were included in the advisory area as well.
Residents of these areas are advised to stay indoors with windows and doors closed, or seek alternate shelter. Strenuous physical activity should be avoided as well.
AQMD has advised residents that even in areas far from fires or areas not covered by a smoke advisory, outdoor activities should be limited or avoided outright if smoke can be smelled or ash seen in the air.
The advisory is expected to stay in place through Thursday. If the fire continues to produce smoke, winds from the north are projected to carry the smoke to the more densely populated southwest and southeast in the morning. Concentration may be elevated in areas near Rancho Cucamonga and Fontana.
By Thursday afternoon, Southwest winds near the South Fire will push smoke towards the northeast and into San Bernardino Mountains.
For more information on the AQMD's South Fire advisories, click here.