Chargers vs. Raiders will go on as planned, despite heavy smoke from wildfires
Here’s what’s happening in California:
The Raiders will continue to host the Chargers on Sunday in spite of concerns over the air quality in North California following wild fires that are still raging across the state.
Unless there is a major change in the next hour the Chargers and Raiders will hold to the scheduled 1:05 p.m. PT kickoff time, despite reports that smoke is heavy in the area. Players experienced some of the smoke on Thursday during practice — but fire conditions will make it even more difficult on Sunday.
Ash failing in sky, odor of smoke as Raiders practice. Atmosphere from 8,000-acre “Camp Fire” near Chico. C/G Jon Feliciano stretching with part of face covered amid conditions. pic.twitter.com/WYqnvrvGOk
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) November 8, 2018
The Rams cancelled practice on Friday to allow players to spend time with their families and escape smoke affecting the area. The team also released a brief statement.
Thank you to all the first responders who are working tirelessly to keep us safe.
— Los Angeles Rams (@RamsNFL) November 10, 2018
Statement from the Los Angeles Rams: pic.twitter.com/vIc27FnIQt
Officials have downgraded air quality in the area and are warning people to stay indoors if they have any health conditions, and to avoid “heavy exertion.”
#SF’s air quality is still affected by the #ButteCountyFire & continues to be RED/UNHEALTHY. Reduce exposure by closing windows & doors. People with heart or lung disease should remain indoors & avoid heavy exertion. Visit https://t.co/KEPzIeJQ7r for more info. pic.twitter.com/kJe700ZgiM
— San Francisco DEM (@SF_emergency) November 11, 2018
The Raiders were handing out masks to fans arriving at the stadium.
The @Raiders are giving these out to fans today due to poor air quality in the Bay Area due to fires in NorCal. pic.twitter.com/K5iiINdo5e
— Head Coach Ranking (@HCRfootball) November 11, 2018
Skies over Oakland were blue, but that didn’t tell the story.
Blue sky over Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum; smoke visible from behind it. Many stadium staffers wearing respirator masks. Air quality still “unhealthy” 159 index as of 11 a.m. PT. Chargers-Raiders remain on schedule for 1:05 p.m. kickoff. pic.twitter.com/xjv0tmS5ft
— Michael Gehlken (@GehlkenNFL) November 11, 2018
The smoke is thick in Oakland and I’m about to be a This raider game choking. Rip my lungs
— Jorge Villatoro (@jorgevillatoro) November 11, 2018
What is happening right now?
Several wildfires are raging in California, the largest of which is the Camp Fire, located just over an hour north of Sacramento. 25 people have died in the fires, with 200,000 forced to evacuate as a result of the fires. Conditions are showing no sign of assistance, with a lack of rain, high winds and dry air continuing to fuel the fires.
The Camp Fire is pushing thick smoke over the NorCal area, and remains just 20 percent contained. Strong southwest winds are fueling the fires, and pushing the smoke to the coast as a result — which should continue throughout Sunday and into Monday.
Football isn’t important, but hopefully the game’s profile will raise awareness.
If you are able to assist and donate to relief efforts there are several organizations working to help people in need in California.
- The American Red Cross is setting up shelters and food sites across the state.
- The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation supports first responders. They are currently seeking donations for hydration backpacks for firefighters in the field.
- The CCF Wildfire Relief Fund is providing immediate assistance, as well as working towards long-term preparedness measures.