Health officials are advising people who are sensitive to air quality issues to avoid smoke from the fire that continued to burn Wednesday morning in the remains of the north hangar at the long-closed Tustin Marine Corps Air Station.
The blaze that has destroyed the historic structure started early Tuesday morning and smoke was seen rising high into the air throughout the afternoon Tuesday.
Wednesday morning, officials with the South Coast Air Quality Management District issued a smoke advisory because of the fire. It is set to be in effect through the end of the day. Officials with the agency said most of the impacts are localized for now, but stronger Santa Ana winds could push smoke toward the southwest.
“Air quality conditions may reach unhealthy for sensitive groups in nearby neighborhoods,” the advisory said.
Orange County Health Care Agency officials echoed the advisory, saying people who are “being impacted” by windblown smoke, dust or ash, should “try to limit your exposure by remaining indoors, with windows and doors closed or seek alternative shelter to reduce exposure to smoke and ash.”
“Everyone should be aware of the recommended precautions to reduce the health effects of smoke and ash from building fires,” Dr. Regina Chinsio-Kwong, the county’s health officer and director of public health services, said in a statement. “Extra measures may be needed for those with pre-existing medical conditions like heart or lung disease, those with disabilities, older adults, children, and those who may be working outdoors.”
Tustin Mayor Austin Lumbard on Wednesday worried about the impacts on his community’s air quality following the blaze. While the fire still smolders at the base of the burned-out hangar, local agencies are monitoring the air for any health concerns, he said.
“There are concerns about materials used,” Lumbard said. “AQMD’s initial readings were unremarkable, but there is a general concern about materials used 80 years ago.”
