PENNSYLVANIA (WOLF) — Wildfire smoke from Canadia and Minnesota reaching out area has led to the National Weather Service (NWS) issuing an air quality alert for Pennsylvania.
The NWS issued an air quality alert for all of Northeastern and Central Pennsylvania through late Thursday, July 16 and early Friday, July 17 due to fine particulates in the air caused by the smoke.
Air quality alerts affect all of the following counties in our area: Bradford, Carbon, Clinton, Columbia, Lackawanna, Luzerne, Lycoming, Monroe, Montour, Northumberland, Pike, Schuylkill, Snyder, Sullivan, Susquehanna, Union, Wayne, Wyoming.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection also issued a Code Red Air Quality Action Day for Thursday, July 16.
The poor air quality can affect vulnerable populations, including older adults, young children and teenagers, and those who suffer from respiratory or cardiac issues. Strenuous outdoor activities, such as running or heavy work, should be avoided if possible. Limiting the amount of time you spend outdoors will be beneficial.
Additionally, Pennsylvania officials are encouraging individuals to limit the release of pollutants. Avoid the use of gas-powered lawn equipment, reduce firewood and wood stove use and avoid the open burning of materials for the time being.
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