Air Quality Watch Cancelled Due to Increased Containment of Madre Fire

Update on July 8, 2025

The Air Pollution Control District (APCD) has decided to cancel the Air Quality Watch and Alert, due to increased containment of the Madre Fire and their air quality forecasts showing continued improved air quality.

APCD’s website has resources regarding ash cleanup, which could be useful to those in the Cuyama area. Website: https://www.ourair.org/ash-cleanup/

Santa Barbara County on Air Quality Watch Due to Wildfire Along Highway 166

July 3, 2025

Santa Barbara County is under an Air Quality Watch due to smoke from the Madre Fire burning along Highway 166 between Route 101 and New Cuyama. The air quality across this region is being deemed between “good’ and “moderate.” However, conditions may change rapidly as smoke levels fluctuate throughout the day, depending on progress in containing the fire.

Highlights

• County APCD has issued an air quality watch due to rising smoke from the Madre Fire burning on Highway 166 between Route 101 and New Cuyama.
• At the moment, local air quality ranges between good and moderate.
• Smoke levels may vary by location, so residents are advised to stay alert and check updates on the OurAir website.

Air Quality Impacted by the Madre Fire on Highway 166

The Madre Fire on the Highway 166 corridor has triggered elevated smoke levels in some areas. Many parts of Santa Barbara County are experiencing good air quality, but smoky pockets are forming in some areas, particularly areas located downwind of the fire. Residents have been asked to practice caution when they smell or see smoke and limit strenuous outdoor activity, especially if you are in a smoky area.

The OurAir website can be used to track the air quality across the county. In addition to this, authorities have also listed a few precautions to protect the public from adverse health effects. Recommended precautions include:

• Stay indoors until all smoke dissipates or the AQI reads moderate or better air quality levels.
• Set up a clean room in your home using a HEPA air purifier that doesn’t generate ozone.
• Sensitive groups such as children, seniors, pregnant individuals, or those with respiratory issues have been asked to limit their exposure to the air.

In addition to keeping tabs on the OurAir website, residents are also encouraged to keep an eye on Santa Barbara County’s official alerts for real-time updates on the situation.