Downey students being kept indoors due to smoke, ash

DOWNEY -- Downey public schools are operating on rainy day schedules today due to the ash and smoke that is drifting over Downey as a result of the Colby Fire burning in Glendora. Dr. Robert Jagielski, director of student services for the Downey Unified School District, said conditions are changing "by the minute," but teachers and principals have been advised to keep students indoors as much as possible.

Elementary schools are operating as if it were a rainy day, with students kept inside classrooms during recess and lunch.

"It is better to err on the side of safety," Jagielski said.

Downey firefighters are en route to Glendora to help battle the fire, said Councilman Mario Guerra.

"Prayers needed for everyone," Guerra wrote on Facebook.