‘Spare the Air’ warning extended through Wednesday

SAN FRANCISCO — Following a week of intense heat and wildfires, the Bay Area Air Quality Management District extended its warning of unhealthy air quality into Wednesday for the Santa Clara Valley and East Bay.

The air quality in those areas is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups, which includes children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with pre-existing conditions, like diabetes, heart disease and lung diseases.

The increased ozone, commonly known as smog, can result in respiratory irritation, reduced lung function, asthma aggravation and lung lining inflammation and damage.

The air district encouraged people to limit driving and consider other modes of transportation, such as biking or public transportation.

The air quality warning comes after temperatures are forecasted to rise this week in the Bay Area, reaching triple-digit temperatures inland.