Multiple wildfires trigger unhealthy air quality alert in Southern California

Summer Lin, Los Angeles Times on May 21, 2026

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LOS ANGELES — Wide swaths of Southern California are under a smoke advisory through Thursday night, as wildfires burn across the area.

According to the South Coast Air Quality Management District, onshore winds will push smoke from the Sandy fire into Los Angeles County, impacting residents along the coast and from the San Fernando Valley to Arcadia, where the air could become unhealthy for sensitive groups.

A smoke advisory that went into place Wednesday afternoon is now extended until at least 10 p.m. Thursday, according to a Los Angeles County Public Health news release.

Other fires in the region are also impacting Southern Californians.

The Bain and Verona fires in Riverside County have put wildfire smoke into several valleys in the Inland Empire, including in Perris, Temecula, Riverside and San Jacinto, according to the AQMD website.

Widespread smoke impacts are expected in the L.A. Basin, on Catalina Island and the Coachella Valley, too.

Overnight, smoke from the Santa Rosa Island and Sandy fires is expected to come onshore, settling over the coast with little wind to clear the air.

"Smoke impacts can vary over time and by location. If you see ash or smell smoke, take precautions to protect your health," the advisory said.

The Sandy fire was 30% contained and reached 2,115 acres as of Thursday morning.

The Bain fire was 39% contained and 1,456 acres as of Thursday morning. The Verona fire, also in Riverside County, was 38% contained and 600 acres.

The Santa Rosa Island fire was 44% contained and 17,554 acres.

Local officials are hoping to prevent health risks posed by the wildfires.

The Sandy fire has already encircled the Santa Susana Field Laboratory, a former research complex now used for rocket engine testing and nuclear research.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health said it has been collaborating with other government agencies to respond in the event fires spread into the 2,850-acre site.

"Any time there's a wildfire, protection from smoke is critical," said Nichole Quick, the county health department's chief medical adviser. "Same for this event. There is particular sensitivity related to Santa Susana right now ... but as of now, that facility has not been affected by the fire."

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—Staff writer Tony Briscoe contributed to this report.