Holiday in los angeles

Question

We are visiting in September what's la like at the moment after the fires

Answer

Good question. Short answer: yes — LA’s recent wildfire season has raised concerns, but by September things are expected to be much more stable than during the worst of the smoke. That said, there are still some important things to know and plan for. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what LA is like now, the risks, and how you can make your trip comfortable:

What’s the current situation in LA (after the recent fires)

There were major fires earlier in 2025 (including the Palisades and Eaton fires) that caused significant smoke and degraded air quality.
At the height of the fires, particulate matter (PM₂.₅) in some areas reached very high, unhealthy levels.
Local health authorities did issue extended “smoke advisories,” especially for sensitive groups (children, older adults, people with respiratory conditions).
However — and this is important — the South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) has concluded its *expanded monitoring program*, and recent data suggests that current levels of PM₂.₅ and other pollutants are not at the same dangerous peaks as during the fires.
Early research is looking at long-term effects: because many of the fires burned in urban, built-up areas, some toxic metals (like lead) were detected in smoke and ash.

What that means for a visitor in September

Air Quality Risk: Lower than during fire peaks, but not entirely zero. There could still be occasional haze or residual particulate matter, especially if there’s wind or other fires in the region.
Health Precautions: It’s wise to follow the same precautions locals are encouraged to use: monitor air quality, consider an N95 mask if you’re sensitive, and limit strenuous outdoor activity on smoky days.
Timing: September is typically not peak fire season for Southern California (relative to late summer), and weather patterns are often more stable. This lowers the chance of major smoke events during your trip.
Staying Informed: Use real-time AQI apps (or the South Coast AQMD app) to check conditions day by day.

Tips for Travelling in LA Right Now

Book accommodations with good air conditioning (ideally units that can recirculate indoor air) — helps if there’s occasional haze.
Avoid planning very strenuous outdoor activities (like long hikes) on days when AQI is moderate or worse.
Bring or buy a decent air purifier or use places with filtered air (museums, indoor attractions) if you're sensitive.
If your itinerary is flexible, keep a couple of “indoor back-up” plans (museums, galleries, concerts) ready in case the air is less pleasant outdoors.

Bottom line: Yes, LA is more normal now than during active fires — but there’s still a small risk of lingering smoke or air quality impacts. With smart planning and by keeping an eye on daily conditions, you should be able to enjoy your September trip safely and comfortably.

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