The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has declared a statewide Code Red Air Quality Action Day for fine particulate matter on Thursday.
Wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota is expected to enter Pennsylvania’s northern counties before spreading south Wednesday afternoon into Thursday.
A Code Red alert means air pollution levels are unhealthy for everyone. Residents should consider limiting outdoor activities, while children, older adults and people with respiratory illnesses should avoid prolonged or intense outdoor activity.
DEP also recommends avoiding gas-powered lawn equipment, reducing fireplace and wood stove use and avoiding open burning.
Residents are encouraged to check AirNow.gov for current conditions in their area.