The Bay Area is set to experience its first Spare the Air alert of the season as pollution levels rise just before Thanksgiving. The Bay Area Air Quality Management District announced an alert for Wednesday and Thursday due to increased smoke from wood burning.
Why the Spare the Air Alert Was Issued
The air quality index (AQI) is expected to reach the moderate category or worse. This level is caused mainly by wood smoke getting trapped close to the ground because of calm weather conditions and a strong high-pressure system over California.
On Tuesday, even without an official alert, the air quality had already reached moderate levels in many Bay Area locations as a mix of smoke and fog (smog) settled over the region.
Wood Burning Rules During the Alert
During a Spare the Air alert, wood burning is illegal. This includes:
- Indoor fireplaces
- Outdoor fire pits
- Wood stoves
- Any wood-burning device
First-time violators receive a warning. Repeat offenders can face fines. However, you can still use:
- Natural gas fireplaces
- Propane fireplaces
- Electric fireplaces
Fog Advisory Adds to Air Quality Issues
The National Weather Service issued a dense fog advisory for much of the Bay Area as visibility dropped below a quarter-mile in certain spots. The extra smoke in the air has made the fog thicker and more widespread.
High Pressure Making Air Quality Worse
A strong high-pressure system has lowered wind speeds across Northern California. With little wind, smoke and pollution cannot rise and disperse, leaving contaminants trapped near ground level.
Lower Threshold Means More Alerts This Winter
The Air District recently changed its rules, which could mean Bay Area residents will see more Spare the Air alerts this winter. As of October, an alert is triggered when fine particulate pollution reaches a daily average of:
- 25 micrograms per cubic meter — new threshold
The previous threshold was:
- 35 micrograms per cubic meter
This stricter standard is designed to protect public health, especially for people with asthma, heart conditions, or respiratory issues.
Conclusion
The Bay Area’s first Spare the Air alert of the season is a reminder of how quickly pollution can rise during the winter months. With foggy weather, calm winds, and more wood burning during the holidays, air quality can worsen fast. Residents should avoid burning wood, follow safety guidelines, and stay aware of air quality conditions as more alerts may be issued throughout the season.
