Wildfire smoke from the Plaskett and Timber Fires in Monterey County can affect communities more than 1,000 miles away, environmental health and wellness expert Helen Christoni has warned.
Christoni discussed the wider impact of the fires, including the potential risks posed by smoke to air quality and water supplies. The fires are burning in the Big Sur area of California, where crews have been working in steep and difficult terrain.
According to CAL FIRE, the Plaskett Fire had burned 29,862 acres and was 47% contained as of September 7. The cause remains under investigation, while evacuation orders and warnings continue to cover parts of Monterey County.
The Timber and Plaskett Fires are being managed as a joint operation by federal, state and local agencies. Fire officials have said that rugged ground, heavy vegetation and limited access are continuing to complicate efforts to strengthen containment lines.
Smoke from wildfires contains fine particles and other pollutants that can travel far beyond the immediate fire zone. US health authorities say exposure can worsen asthma and other respiratory conditions, while also increasing the risk of breathing and heart-related problems.
The Environmental Protection Agency has also warned that wildfires can affect water quality. Ash, debris and pollutants may enter waterways, while damage to pipes and other infrastructure can create a risk of contamination in drinking-water systems.
Highway 1 remains closed south of Pacific Valley to the Monterey-San Luis Obispo county line to support emergency operations at the Plaskett Fire. A separate closure linked to the Timber Fire, between the Little Sur River and Big Sur, was lifted on September 3.
