EPA tracking air quality as dangerous pollution levels spike overnight near Boyle Heights fire

BOYLE HEIGHTS, LOS ANGELES (KABC) -- A temporary air sensor placed just a few blocks east of the cold storage facility fire in Boyle Heights recorded a dramatic spike in pollution levels overnight, according to real time data from the EPA's AirNow map.

The map, which pulls readings from thousands of sensors across the region, showed the temporary monitor listing moderate air quality on Tuesday. But hourly data revealed that at 9 p.m. Monday, the Air Quality Index surged to 621 - a level far above the 300 mark, which anything above is considered "hazardous".

By Tuesday, the AQI at that same sensor had dropped back to 66, underscoring how quickly readings can shift depending on wind patterns.

Other sensors near the fire showed far less severe conditions. A monitor just west of the fire never rose above an AQI of 95, remaining in the moderate range throughout the past week.

Another sensor roughly 3,600 feet east of the ones closest to the fire recorded more volatility, peaking at 171, which falls into the unhealthy category. None of those spikes approached the 621 reading detected nearest to the fire.

Doctors say the AQI number is critical for anyone near wildfire smoke.

"I think just pay attention to the AQI," said Dr. Sameh Hanna of Dignity Health Medical Group.

"But even if you don't smell (smoke) and you're a sensitive person and have an underlying condition, you should take those precautions, avoid exercising outdoors, doing outdoor activities and try to stay indoors."

Residents can check the AQI from the sensor closest to them at the AirNow Fire and Smoke Map website.