NO ALERT - December 7, 2023 - December 11, 2023

December 11 – December 15: An upper-level pattern change from ridge to trough will bring onshore winds and morning fog early this week, along with a mix of sun and clouds during the day. Expect a warming trend compared to the past weekend. Temperatures inland will range from the mid 30s to mid 70s. Coastal temperatures will range from the low 40s to high 60s. Cool calm weather suggests ozone, PM2.5 (smoke), and PM10 (dust) will remain GOOD this week. Wood smoke in the San Lorenzo Valley may raise PM2.5 to MODERATE or even UNHEALTHY FOR SENSITIVE GROUPS in the late evenings/early mornings. Early next week expect rain and unsettled weather, and perhaps an atmospheric river. A Spare the Air alert is NOT in effect.

SPARE THE AIR SEASON HAS STARTED

November 3, 2023: Link to the press release/Enlace al comunicado de prensa

To reduce wintertime wood smoke in the San Lorenzo Valley, MBARD started a Spare the Air program to notify the community of days when wood burning is discouraged due to poor air quality conditions. During a Spare the Air alert, residents are asked to choose an alternative heating source such as natural gas, propane, electricity, or wood pellets.  Spare the Air alerts are issued during the colder months, between November and April each year.

Do your part on Spare the Air days: Choose an alternative home heating source on Spare the Air days and spread the word to your friends and neighbors about the call to action.

Clean Wood Burning

Efficient and clean wood burning reduces smoke and harmful health impacts.

Learn five tips for an efficient fire by watching the video below.

Burning wet wood is a waste, learn why by watching the video below.

If you choose to burn wood, please remember:

• Begin with a hot fire
• Only burn dry, seasoned wood
• Don’t use big pieces of wood, split the logs
• Don’t let the fire smolder, give it enough air