With the Nearby Hathaway fire continuing to grow, the Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District has issued an Smoke Advisory for Yucca Valley, Morongo Valley and surrounding communities. Smoke from the Hathaway wildfire currently burning near the Morongo Indian Reservation in Riverside County could impact air quality in these areas. If you see or smell smoke in the air where you are, be cautious and use common sense to protect your family’s health. Everyone, especially people with heart or lung disease, older adults and children, should limit time spent outdoors and avoid outdoor exercise when smoke is in the area. Levels of smoke and particles will depend on changes in winds and the containment of the fire. The fire started Sunday on the Morongo Indian reservation North of Banning, then burned north into the San Gorgonio Wilderness of the San Bernardino National Forest. This area is very steep and rugged terrain, with significant tree mortality as a result of the 1999 to 2004 drought and bark beetle infestation. The fire is 40% contained as of this morning and has burned 3,130 acres. 1,430 firefighters are battling the blaze and there have been five injuries. The cause is still under Investigation and full containment is expected June 25.
HATHAWAY FIRE GROWS, SMOKE ADVISORY ISSUED FOR WEST END
