Dense smoke from the hundreds of wildfires burning across northern California continues to plague residents.

The North Coast Unified Air Quality Management District issued an air quality alert Saturday for Somes Bar, Orleans, Weitchpec, Hoopa, Willow Creek, Burnt Ranch, Junction City, Helena, Big Bar, Big Flat, Weaverville, Hayfork, Hyampom, Ruth, Zenia, Mad River and all areas in close proximity to the wildfires.

According to the air agency, smoke levels in these areas are “very unhealthy.”

“All individuals, especially the elderly, the young, those with respiratory or heart disease, and anyone who is sensitive to air pollution should limit outdoor activities today,” according to the alert.

The Yurok Tribe declared a “State of Emergency” Saturday after receiving the latest updates from its emergency response staff of how the dense wildfire smoke is affecting its membership.

The Tribe said it received escalating reports from normally healthy tribal members citing health affects from the smoke.

“Declaring an emergency is the first step in opening up the Tribe’s Emergency Response Plan, which enables us to quickly bring services to our membership in a coordinated manner,” said Chairperson Maria Tripp.

The Yurok Tribe indicated it has delivered home air-filtration systems to elders and those who are more susceptible to smoke.

The Yurok Tribe announced it is opening a breathing respite station in its Weitchpec office, will open up a shelter in the Klamath area and will continue to deliver HEPA filters and other support services to its members who are at risk.

Tribal members seeking assistance or who want to report health problems related to the smoke are urged to phone the Yurok Tribe’s hotline number at 707-954-8650.

Caltrans reported that major roads connecting the coastal to areas to the inland were open as of Saturday afternoon, although State Route 199 near Crescent City was restricted to one-way traffic control from Hiouchi Village to Gasquet.

Motorists should anticipate 30-minute delays, according to Caltrans.

State Route 299 was also open as of Saturday afternoon, although CAL FIRE anticipated more closures during the day.

For the most up-to-date road information on all state highways, phone 800-427-7623, or log on to www.dot.ca.gov/hq/roadinfo.