Ash, soot raining down around LA during Sand Fire

GLENDALE, Calif. (KABC) -- The sky turned blood-orange Saturday as smoke from the Sand Fire filled the air throughout the Los Angeles region.

While photographers captured the beautiful images, public officials warned about unhealthy air quality as soot and ash rained down, leaving a thick coating everywhere.

Pools were closed and other outdoor activities were rescheduled or relocated because of the health risks.

The South Coast Air Quality Management District issued an advisory that the smoke would lead to unhealthy air quality in areas of the San Fernando, San Gabriel and Walnut valleys, as well as portions of the San Gabriel Mountains.

The agency advised the public to avoid vigorous activity, both outdoor and inside, particularly vulnerable populations like people with respiratory disease, the elderly and children.

Air conditioners should be run with the fresh-air intakes closed, the agency said, and the filter clean.