Issued: May 19, 2026
The City of Hidden Hills is alerting residents to a Smoke Advisory issued by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health due to the Sandy Fire. The South Coast Air Quality Management District has declared unhealthy air quality across western Los Angeles County, including the Hidden Hills community. This advisory is in effect through Tuesday, May 19, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. The City will provide updates if the advisory is extended. Conditions may change based on fire activity and weather.
Official Notice: LA County Public Health – Smoke Advisory May 19, 2026
What This Means for Hidden Hills Residents
Wildfire smoke is a mixture of fine particles, gases, and water vapor. The fine particles pose the greatest health risk and can cause burning eyes, a runny nose, a scratchy throat, and respiratory illness. Those at higher risk, including children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with heart, lung, or immune conditions, should take extra precautions and stay indoors as much as possible, even if smoke is not visible or there is no smell of smoke in your immediate area.
Recommended Actions
- Stay indoors and keep windows and doors closed
- Run air conditioners in recirculate mode, do not draw in outside air
- Use air purifiers with HEPA filters or filters rated MERV-13 or higher
- Avoid all unnecessary outdoor activity, including exercise and equestrian activity
- Wear an N95 or P100 mask if you must go outside in heavy smoke conditions
- Avoid using fireplaces, candles, or vacuums indoors
- Wipe dusty surfaces with a damp cloth rather than dry dusting
- If you experience severe coughing, shortness of breath, chest pain, or unusual fatigue, contact your healthcare provider. For life-threatening emergencies, call 911
Pets and Horses
Given Hidden Hills’ equestrian community, residents are reminded to bring animals indoors or into enclosed shelters. Monitor horses and livestock for signs of respiratory distress. Dogs or cats showing labored breathing should be taken to a veterinarian immediately.
Monitor Air Quality
For real-time and forecasted air quality conditions, download the South Coast AQMD Mobile App (available in English and Spanish) visit aqmd.gov/home/air-quality/air-quality-forecasts.
The City of Hidden Hills will continue to monitor this situation and provide updates if the advisory is extended beyond 6:30 p.m. tonight. Residents are encouraged to sign up for Blackboard Connect alerts to receive notifications directly.
Source: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health, May 19, 2026
