AIR QUALITY MONITORING
New Post-Fire Assessment Results from LACPH
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has released updated results on its Post-Fire Air, Soil, and Water Assessment Dashboard. Final findings from soil testing in the Eaton and Palisades fire areas confirm a higher percentage of soil samples with lead above health-based screening thresholds on parcels with intact homes downwind of the Eaton Fire. In the Palisades area, localized chemical impacts were found, though no evidence of widespread contamination was identified.
Public Health emphasizes that these results are not directives for cleanup but provide data to highlight areas where potential health risks may exist. Residents in impacted areas are encouraged to consult the dashboard, consider soil testing, and follow safety precautions to avoid contact with ash, soot, or fire debris. For guidance on minimizing exposure, visit Public Health’s Frequently Asked Questions. The full report is on their website.
Hexavalent Chromium Findings
On Thursday 8/28 LA Fire Health Study reported airborne hexavalent chromium nanoparticles—carcinogenic particles small enough to travel 6 miles, infiltrate homes, and accumulate in the body over time—at levels higher than EPA indoor air safety thresholds. It’s important to understand that while hexavalent chromium is a known carcinogen, the risk comes mainly from long-term, repeated exposure. Its harmful effects accumulate in the body over time, rather than from a single brief encounter. This means that reducing everyday exposure is critical to lowering long-term health risks. Access the data brief, the recording for the event, and key findings from the recording here.
AQMD PRESS RELEASES
of Eaton Fire Area Airborne Contaminant Detection
Fire Station 11 5/31/25
2521 El Molino Ave, Altadena, CA 91001
Asbestos Detected
Air toxic metal selenium was above background levels
Near Altadena Golf Course 5/22/25
1456 E. Mendocino St, Altadena, CA 91001
Asbestos Detected
Fire Station 11 5/22/25
2521 El Molino Ave, Altadena, CA 91001
Asbestos Detected
Near Altadena Golf Course 5/22/25
1456 E. Mendocino St, Altadena, CA 91001
Asbestos Detected
Analysis for air toxics in progress.
Fire Station 11 5/22/25
2521 El Molino Ave, Altadena, CA 91001
Asbestos Detected
Analysis for air toxics in progress.
Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church 4/10/25
185 W Altadena Dr, Altadena, CA 91001
Air toxic metal beryllium was above background levels.
Near Altadena Golf Course 4/7/25
1456 E. Mendocino St, Altadena, CA 91001
Asbestos Detected
Air toxic metal beryllium was above background levels.
Near Altadena Golf Course 3/5/25
1456 E. Mendocino St, Altadena, CA 91001
Asbestos Detected
Christ the Shepherd Lutheran Church 3/5/25
185 W Altadena Dr, Altadena, CA 91001
Asbestos Detected
South Coast AQMD has three stations that are updated every hour. Their numbers are currently below State and Federal toxic standards.
To view a map of the current air quality please visit SCAQMD .
If you have any questions, please submit them to wildfireliaison@aqmd.gov
Caltech, in partnership with Altadena and Pasadena community members, has established an air quality monitoring network focused on measuring airborne dust and ash in and around the burned areas of Altadena.
Go to breathe.caltech.edu to view the current AQI
Altadena Golf Course - To view air quality monitoring data from the Altadena Golf Course, please click here.
Air Sampling
Indoor and outdoor air sampling enrollment form coming soon.