PENNSYLVANIA (WTAJ) — Air quality across Central Pennsylvania reached unhealthy levels Friday as wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota continues to spread.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) declared a Code Purple Air Quality Alert for the entire state Thursday evening. The alert is expected to last throughout Friday, July 17.
Code Purple is among the most severe conditions for air quality and is considered to be very unhealthy.
Pennsylvania residents warned to stay indoors as air quality reaches unhealthy levels
Residents across Pennsylvania are being urged to avoid any long or intense outdoor activities, especially for elderly people, children, or those with respiratory illnesses. All residents are encouraged to stay indoors during this time.
The DEP is also asking residents and businesses to avoid using any gas-powered lawn and garden equipment and not to burn any leaves, trash, or other material to help reduce further air pollution.
Get the latest news, weather forecasts and sports stories delivered straight to your inbox! Sign up for our newsletters.
Current air quality conditions can be seen at AirNow.gov.
Copyright 2026 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTAJ | Your News Leader.