Aug. 28, 2009****

The smoke that is noticeable in the air today at CSUMB is coming from the Gloria wildfire, which is burning between Soledad and Gonzales in the Salinas Valley, approximately 30 miles from campus. So far, the fire has consumed 5,000 acres.

The Monterey Bay Unified Air Pollution Control District reports that the smoke smell will be noticeable for a few hours; by mid-afternoon the wind direction is expected to change, taking the smoke out to the bay.

In the meantime, people with sensitivities to smoke may want to stay indoors. Unusually sensitive people may consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion.

For more information, visit the air pollution control district's website at www.mbuapcd.org.