An air quality alert has been issued for the Coachella Valley as the annual music festival begins, prompting officials to advise attendees to minimize travel and limit exposure due to increased dust pollution. The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) has warned that strong winds are expected to stir up significant amounts of dust into the air, potentially reaching levels considered 'unhealthy for sensitive groups' based on the Air Quality Index (AQI). This alert coincides with the influx of festivalgoers, raising concerns about health risks associated with poor air quality. The AQI is a standard used to communicate air pollution levels, with higher numbers indicating greater health risks. Sensitive groups, including those with heart or lung disease, older adults, pregnant individuals, children, and outdoor workers, are advised to limit outdoor activities during this period.