An air quality advisory was issued for the Bay Area, warning residents that smoke from the ongoing Flat Fire in Oregon could cause hazy skies and possible smoke smells at higher elevations, particularly in the East Bay, North Bay, and Santa Clara Valley regions. CBS News San Francisco reported that the advisory was prompted by the wildfire in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest in southwestern Oregon, which has burned at least 12,756 acres since it was first reported on Saturday.

Officials have stressed that pollution levels are not expected to exceed the national 24-hour health standard, and thus, a Spare the Air alert is not in effect. However, residents who smell smoke are urged to stay indoors with windows and doors closed until smoke levels subside, a measure echoed by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District (BAAQMD) via Twitter.

Those affected by the wildfire smoke should also set their air conditioners and car vent systems to recirculate air to prevent outside air from entering, according to an advisory by KRON4. Smoke from wildfires can irritate eyes and airways, causing coughing, scratchy throat, and irritated sinuses. In addition, elevated particulate matter can trigger wheezing in individuals with asthma, emphysema, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

As of Wednesday morning, containment of the Flat Fire remains at 0%, with the cause still undetermined. The BAAQMD will closely monitor the air quality throughout the Bay Area for smoke impact from the Flat Fire and other wildfires. The focus remains on ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in the affected areas while keeping them informed of necessary precautions.