Alright, Los Angeles, today’s a pretty good day to get those miles in, but don't get too complacent, especially if you planned on hitting certain trails.
- The air quality is surprisingly pristine with an AQI of 18, so your lungs are largely getting a break from the usual urban soup.
- Temperatures are mild and clear, making it comfortable for just about any outdoor activity.
- However, new, uncontained wildfires popped up in Los Angeles County yesterday, so keep an eye (and nose) out, especially if you're hitting trails in the foothills.
The Rundown: Your LA Workout Conditions
The good news? The usual smog machine seems to be on a coffee break. We're seeing an Air Quality Index (AQI) of a solid 18, with Ozone/Other listed as the dominant pollutant. That's a green light for your respiratory system, something we don't always get to brag about here. The temperature is a mild 16.5°C (that's about 62°F for the Fahrenheit folks), and it's mainly clear out there, making for pleasant running weather whether you're pounding pavement or climbing hills.
Now, for the "don't be a dummy" part.
Wildfires Are Still a Thing
Just yesterday, May 24th, multiple new wildfires were reported in Los Angeles County. While they were on private land and there’s no word on containment or cause, a new fire is always a concern. Even if the broader AQI isn't reflecting widespread smoke yet, localized smoke can absolutely mess with your lungs if you're downwind. Remember that wildfire smoke is generally worse for your health than our "garden variety urban pollution." Keep an eye on the horizon and trust your gut. If you smell smoke, reroute. It’s not worth the hacking cough later.
Localized Smoke Risk: New wildfires popped up in LA County on May 24. While general AQI is good, stay vigilant for localized smoke, especially near canyon areas or if you have respiratory sensitivities.
Trail Closures: The Eternal Struggle
If your plan was to hit some of the classics, you might be out of luck, and this isn't even new news – it's just still news. Many trails remain closed from past fire seasons. The Santa Monica Mountains Recreation and Conservation Authority (MRCA) still has closures in effect, including sections of Temescal Canyon Trail and the West Inspiration Loop, related to older incidents like the Palisades Fire.
And let’s not forget the Angeles National Forest. Large swathes, including parts of the Gabrielino National Recreation Trail and Mount Wilson Toll Road, are closed through at least 2026 or even 2027 due to the recovery from fires like the Eaton Fire. Don’t just show up expecting business as usual; these aren't temporary inconveniences, they're long-term recovery zones. Check the MRCA and Angeles National Forest sites before you head out, or you'll be doing a lot of disappointed U-turns.
Always Check Trail Status: Many popular trails in the Santa Monica Mountains (e.g., Temescal Canyon) and Angeles National Forest (e.g., Gabrielino National Recreation Trail) are under long-term closures. Don't assume they're open.
The Pollen Situation
It’s moderate out there for pollen today. If you're one of the many Angelenos who get sniffly, congested, or just generally miserable, take your meds before you head out. Don't be a hero.
| Pollen Type | Level (Moderate) |
|---|---|
| Trees | Medium |
| Grass | Medium |
| Weeds | Low |
Nearby, But Not Here (Yet)
Just south of us in Orange County, there's a serious chemical incident in Garden Grove with ongoing evacuations and a potential explosion risk at a manufacturing facility. LA County officials state there's "not a current threat to LA County communities" based on wind conditions. However, if you're in the southern reaches of LA County, especially near the Orange County border, it’s worth being aware of, though it shouldn't impact your immediate workout plans in, say, Griffith Park. Some facilities in southwest LA County have even opened up for evacuees. It's a reminder that even when our air is clear, things can get dicey right next door.
Orange County Chemical Incident: A volatile chemical tank in Garden Grove (OC) poses an explosion risk, leading to evacuations. LA County officials report no current threat to LA communities, but those in south LA should be aware.
So, go run. Just be smart about where you go and pay attention to what's happening around you.
Data grounded with multiple local news sources from May 24-25, 2026.