Berkeley vegetation fire causes unhealthy air quality

A vegetation fire near Interstate 80 in Northwest Berkeley was brought under control on Wednesday afternoon. While firefighters successfully contained the blaze, smoke from the fire caused air quality to reach unhealthy levels across the city.

Unofficial air sensors recorded AQIs exceeding 250 in certain areas, including near the UC Berkeley campus. The density of particulate matter posed potential health risks to residents exposed to the air. During the incident, West Frontage Road was closed between University Avenue and Gilman Street.