Two major local wildfires are affecting air quality in the region. A wildfire named the Silverado Fire is burning in the foothills of the Santa Ana Mountains in and around Irvine and Lake Forest in Orange County. As of 8:30 p.m. on Sunday,  November 1, the burn area was reported at 12,466 acres with 88% containment. Current information on the Silverado Fire can be found on CAL FIRE’s website.

A wildfire named the Blue Ridge Fire is also burning in Yorba Linda and Chino Hills State Park in Orange County. As of 8:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 1, the burn area was reported at 13,694 acres with 88% containment. Current information on the Blue Ridge Fire can be found on CAL FIRE’s website. 

South Coast AQMD forecasts air quality for the Irvine and Orange County areas to be Moderate -to- Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, on Monday, November 2. 

In any area impacted by smoke: If you smell smoke or see ash due to a wildfire, limit your exposure by remaining indoors with windows and doors closed or seeking alternate shelter, and avoiding vigorous physical activity.

For more tips on protecting yourself during a wildfire, see South Coast AQMD’s Wildfire Smoke & Ash Health & Safety Tips page.

Due to the Silverado Fire, the Frank R. Bowerman Landfill sustained damage to the environmental control and stormwater infrastructure. Please visit their website at oclandfills.com to learn more. Additionally, Orange County Waste & Recycling continue to monitor gas levels at the site; for questions please call  949-551-7100. OCWR is in contact with the Southern California Air Quality Management District regarding the situation.