The Mojave Desert Air Quality Management District has issued a Smoke Advisory for Yucca Valley, Morongo Valley and surrounding communities. The smoke blanketing the Morongo Basin is from a fire near Idyllwild. The fire was first reported about 1:30 Monday afternoon and was up to 8,000 acres as of noon today and is still 10 percent contained. At least one structure has burned, and residents in the Mountain Center area have been evacuated. Portions of Highways 243 and 74 are closed due to the fire. A strike team from Yucca Valley Fire Station 41, and about 325 firefighters, four helicopters, six air tankers, four water tenders and two bulldozers were sent to the scene, according to Cal Fire. The fire is believed to have started on private property adjacent to the forest. 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. If you have symptoms of lung or heart disease that may be related to exposure to smoke and particles, including repeated coughing, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, wheezing, chest tightness or pain, contact your health care provider. Levels of smoke and particles will depend on changes in winds and the containment of the fire. This advisory will be in effect as long as conditions warrant.
