California is not new to wildfire seasons with smoke that becomes widely dispersed throughout the state. The smoke dispersal is not necessarily a change, but the persistence, frequency and size of these fires have created recurring air quality concerns at times of the year when residents are not typically concerned about wildfires.

The Creek Fire along with multiple fires in California have made the Central Valley’s air extremely unhealthy. The community is affected and sensitive to smoke transport due to poor circulation caused by the mountains that surround the Valley.

Dr. Aric Mine from the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences has researched atmospheric science and air quality for over five years. “Everyone can be affected by wildfire smoke,” Mine said. “Particulate (air particles) exposure is a health concern because the very small, fine particles — 2.5 microns in size or smaller — can be difficult for your lungs to remove and could dissolve and/or move into your bloodstream.”

Wildfire smoke is not exclusively from wood, so these particles can range in chemical composition due the variety of things we see burning in more populated areas such as cars, paint, roofing, insulation or more.

Visit Fresno State News to see Mine's eight tips.