We have received word from the San Joaquin Valley Air Pollution Control District regarding some abnormally bad air quality due to the air stagnation we are experiencing right now.  They have asked industry to consider curbing or delaying activities as much as possible until conditions change this weekend or early next week.  There is their statement:

The prolonged high temperature conditions in the Valley, dry conditions, impacts from wildfires, and a very strong high pressure system over the Valley will continue to negatively impact air quality in the region over the next several days, particularly in Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare, and Kern Counties.  This “lid” of high pressure firmly in place over the bowl of the Valley has continued to influence air quality, elevating ozone, PM2.5, and PM10 concentrations.  In light of the current elevated air quality impacts, the District strongly encourages the maximization of practices to reduce dust and other emissions as much as possible from agricultural and construction activities.  As poor dispersion conditions are expected to continue into early next week, any further actions taken to reduce emissions will help protect the health of all Valley residents during this challenging period.

While it may be a challenge, if the air quality worsens and the valley is thrown back into non-attainment for PM10 the consequences could be extreme, especially on sources of dust.  We encourage folks to seriously consider the District’s request when and where possible.