A dry cold front with gusty winds is forecasted to move through the Valley this weekend, resulting in the potential for blowing dust and elevated levels of particulate matter pollution, prompting local air pollution officials to issue a health cautionary statement effective Saturday afternoon through Sunday for San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare and the Valley portion of Kern County.

The high winds are expected Saturday, June 27, affecting the northern and western portions of the San Joaquin Valley, subsiding overnight and returning Sunday.

Residents should use caution as dry and windy conditions can create unhealthy concentrations of particulate matter 10 microns and smaller (PM10), in the form of dust. Exposure to particulate pollution can cause serious health problems, aggravate lung disease, trigger asthma attacks and bronchitis, and increase risk of respiratory infections (possibly worsening the effects of COVID-19).

Where conditions warrant, anyone suffering from heart or lung disease should follow their doctors’ advice for dealing with episodes of particulate matter exposure. Additionally, older adults and children should avoid prolonged exposure or heavy exertion, depending on their local conditions. The District advises all residents to remain indoors if possible in affected areas.

For more information, visit www.valleyair.org or call the District office in Modesto at 209-557-6400.