Heavy smoke from the Alisal Fire is creating concern about air quality in Santa Barbara County. An Air Quality Watch has been issued for the county.
So far, the weather conditions have been moving the smoke southeast, away from the coast and out over the Channel Islands. Satellite images show the plume bypassing Southern California, and ending up in Mexico.
But, Santa Barbara County Air Pollution Control District officials caution weather shifts could change the county's air quality conditions rapidly.
They say if you see and smell smoke, that's the cue to avoid strenuous outdoor activity, and remain indoors as much as possible. If you are an essential worker and you must work outdoors, you should wear a properly fitted N-95 mask.
