Smoke from Southern California wildfires is blanketing the Las Vegas Valley this morning and is expected to persist for several days, according to the National Weather Service in Las Vegas.

The hazy conditions stem from the Gifford Fire burning north of Santa Barbara, Calif. Southwest wind patterns are carrying the smoke into the valley, the weather service reported.

The smoke can cause eye irritation, chest tightness, difficulty breathing and coughing, health officials said. Those with heart or lung diseases are more likely to be hospitalized.

Children, the elderly and pregnant women are more susceptible to air pollution-related diseases, the group said.

People who must go outside should consider wearing an N95 or KN95 mask. When inside, keep your doors and windows closed, officials said.

People should reduce the time they spend outside and limit trips to necessities like doctor appointments, officials said. Those who experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing or throat irritation, should return indoors, officials said.