Air quality update

Our thoughts at Stanford continue to be with the many people directly affected by the devastating wildfires in California.

The Bay Area continues to see wildfire smoke, which has been increasing again over the last 24 hours. So far, air quality readings reported by the Bay Area Air Quality Management District at the nearest official reporting station in Redwood City have remained below the 201 level for particle pollution, which is considered the beginning of the “very unhealthy” category for air quality. As a result, the university has been continuing most regular operations, with all members of the community encouraged to take precautions for their personal health and comfort.

Environmental Health & Safety is continuously monitoring the local Air Quality Index readings. As of 12 noon, the Redwood City station reported a reading of 187. The university will continue evaluating the situation and will provide a further update later today, along with any anticipated impacts to university operations.

In the meantime, the following guidance is suggested for the campus community, and more details are available in the campus advisory on the Environmental Health & Safety website:

  • Limit strenuous outdoor activity.
  • Curtail outdoor activities that are not essential or time-sensitive. Employees, please consult with managers where there are questions or special health needs.
  • For more susceptible populations including older adults, children, and those with pulmonary/respiratory conditions, minimize time spent outdoors.
  • Consult with your health care provider if you experience smoke-related health issues.

The Dish and Matadero Trail in the Stanford foothills are being closed this afternoon due to the poor air quality and are anticipated to remain closed on Friday. Consult The Dish website for updates.

A further update will be provided later today at emergency.stanford.edu.