Hazardous Air Quality Grips San Francisco
San Francisco declared a state of emergency as wildfire smoke from Northern California fires blanketed the city, pushing air quality levels into the “hazardous” range. Officials urged residents to stay indoors, use air purifiers, and wear N95 masks when going outside.
Emergency Services Mobilized
Schools and outdoor events were canceled, and community centers distributed free masks and air filters to vulnerable populations. The city also increased outreach efforts to assist those experiencing homelessness, providing temporary shelter in clean-air facilities.
A Year-Round Crisis
“Wildfires are no longer a seasonal crisis—they’re a year-round reality,” said Mayor London Breed during a press conference. The mayor emphasized the need for continued investment in wildfire prevention and urban air quality resilience.
Calls for Action on Climate Change
Environmental groups used the crisis to highlight the urgency of climate action. “Events like this are only going to become more frequent and severe,” warned climate scientist Dr. Anika Rao. Advocates called for stronger commitments to renewable energy and reforestation efforts statewide.
