Los Angeles County is engulfed in **toxic smoke**, resulting from significant fires affecting broad regions, including Pasadena and Downtown Los Angeles.
The **Air Quality Index** indicates unhealthy air, particularly for sensitive groups, while areas like Long Beach remain only slightly better.
Despite the **peak of the Santa Ana winds** having passed, forecasts suggest gusty winds could return, enhancing fire spread risks.
Health warnings emphasize that even **short-term exposure** to harmful particulate matter poses serious risks, especially to vulnerable populations.
Residents are advised to stay indoors, keep windows closed, and wear N-95 masks if venturing outside, as the region remains under an **air quality alert**.
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