Local air pollution officials have issued a health caution effective Monday afternoon through Monday night due to blowing dust as a result of gusty winds.

The health concern affects an eight county air basin: San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Merced, Madera, Fresno, Kings, Tulare and the Valley portion of Kern counties.

A dry cold front is moved through the Valley Monday afternoon, producing gusty winds and elevating the amount of particles in the air.

People with heart and lung disease, older adults, and children should avoid prolonged exposure.