Credit: Tom Sofield/NewHopeFreePress.com
Smoke from wildfires in Canada will impact Bucks and Hunterdon counties’ air quality on Wednesday.
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection issued a Code Red Air Quality Action Day for the entire state Tuesday. The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection also warned of air quality impacts.
Pennsylvania officials warned that fine particulate matter caused by the wildfires will result in a deterioration of air quality conditions, with average Air Quality Index readings expected to fall within the Code Red range throughout the day. Local conditions may be even worse.
The smoke originating from the wildfires in Canada is expected to make its way to Pennsylvania from the Great Lakes region. Western Pennsylvania is anticipated to experience high smoke levels throughout the day, while eastern Pennsylvania will likely see an increase in smoke concentration as the day progresses.
Individuals at risk include young children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis.
To minimize the effects of air pollution, it is strongly advised that these vulnerable populations refrain from outdoor activities. Additionally, individuals in general should reduce prolonged or strenuous exertion, state officials said.
It is not believed air quality will not be as severe as it was earlier this month.
Earlier in June, Bucks County had the worst air quality in the world as one point as the smoke settled over the area.
To stay informed about their area’s air quality, residents can visit airnow.gov.
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