California Wildfire Smoke & Air Quality
Check wildfire smoke and air quality across California on the live map, with readings plotted next to the active fires that may be driving them. During smoke events, follow your local health authority.
How California smoke and air quality appear on the map
Turn on the smoke and air-quality layers to see where conditions are degrading across California, plotted alongside active fires so you can see what may be driving the smoke. Air quality can change within hours as wind shifts, so check the map through the day and follow your local health authority during smoke events.
Air-quality sources for California
Air-quality and smoke information for California traces back to official sources:
- National Interagency Fire Center (NIFC)
- National Weather Service
- InciWeb
- NASA FIRMS
- California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services
We pair these readings with active fire data so you can connect smoke to its likely source. Always confirm health advisories with your local health authority.
California smoke and air quality FAQ
Is the air quality safe in California right now?
Wildfire smoke can move air quality from good to hazardous quickly. WildFire-Ready plots air-quality readings for California on the live map so you can check conditions near you. During smoke events, follow guidance from your local health authority, and check the map for the latest readings.
Where is the wildfire smoke coming from in California?
Smoke over California can come from local fires or be carried hundreds of kilometres from fires elsewhere. The live map shows active fires alongside air-quality readings, so you can see what may be driving conditions. Confirm health guidance with your local authority.
How do I protect myself from wildfire smoke in California?
Common guidance during smoke events is to stay indoors with windows closed, run a clean-air space or filter where possible, limit strenuous outdoor activity, and follow advisories from your local health authority. People with heart or lung conditions, older adults, young children, and pregnant people should take extra care.
Where does California air-quality data come from?
We draw air-quality readings for California from the U.S. Air Quality Index (AQI) network and plot them on the map next to active fires. Always confirm health advisories with your local health authority. WildFire-Ready is a companion to 911, not a replacement.