Air Quality Watch Issued for North County

An Air Quality Watch has been issued for northern Santa Barbara County through Tuesday morning because of high winds expected to hit the Santa Maria area over the weekend.

The winds, according to officials, could produce elevated particle levels. People should limit time spent outdoors during these types of events, officials said in a press release, especially the elderly, children, and residents with heart or lung disease. Anyone with symptoms that may be related to particle exposure should contact a health-care provider.