PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 03: Winds gusting to more than 50 mph fill the air around wind turbines with dust on September 3, 2023 near Palm Springs, California. The desert region from Palm Springs to Mecca is still recovering from extensive damage brought by recent powerful storms that delivered heavy rain and widespread flash floods. (Photo by David McNew/Getty Images)
San Diego, California – Southern California residents are being warned to brace for poor air quality this Memorial Day weekend, as officials issue alerts about unhealthy levels of particle pollution driven by strong winds and airborne dust, particularly in the Coachella Valley.
According to the National Weather Service (NWS), an air quality alert remains in effect from 2 p.m. Friday through 8 a.m. Saturday, prompted by gusty winds carrying dust and debris into the air. The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) issued the alert, citing “harmful” concentrations of particle pollution—specifically PM10, which includes particles small enough to be inhaled into the lungs.
The alert applies to several cities across the region, including Indio, Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Palm Desert, La Quinta, and Coachella. While everyone can experience the effects of particle pollution, officials emphasized that vulnerable groups such as older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and people with heart or lung conditions face the greatest health risks.
“Particle pollution can get deep into the lungs and cause serious health problems such as asthma attacks, heart and lung disease symptoms, and increased risk of lung infections,” the NWS warned in its advisory.
The strongest winds—gusting up to 47 miles per hour—are expected in the northwestern Coachella Valley, near the San Gorgonio Pass. South Coast AQMD noted that such winds are capable of lifting dust and soil into the air, significantly raising PM10 levels in affected areas.
South Coast AQMD is responsible for regulating air quality for over 17 million people across Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino counties, including the Coachella Valley. The district noted that windblown dust is a common issue in the region between April and October, when high winds are more frequent.
Health experts continue to raise concerns about the long-term impact of air pollution. Jonathan Grigg, a professor of pediatric respiratory and environmental medicine at Queen Mary University of London, previously stated that inhaling fine particles is closely linked to early deaths from respiratory and cardiovascular diseases. He also warned that conditions such as asthma are aggravated by poor air quality.
To protect themselves, residents are advised to stay indoors with windows and doors closed, use air purifiers or air conditioners, and avoid burning candles, grilling, or using gas-powered lawn equipment.
