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Ohio Air Quality Plummets: Wildfire Smoke Engulfs State
17 Jul
Summary
- Ohio EPA issued an air quality advisory for the entire state until midnight July 17.
- Marion's air quality hit 222, classified as 'very unhealthy' by AccuWeather.
- Wildfire smoke from Canada is causing the widespread air quality degradation.
Officials have recommended that Marion residents remain indoors as wildfire smoke drifts into the area, significantly degrading air quality. The Ohio Environmental Protection Agency issued an Air Quality Advisory for all of Ohio, effective until midnight on July 17.
As of 9:30 a.m. on July 17, Marion's air quality index reached 222, a level classified as 'very unhealthy.' This is a stark contrast to the scale's excellent rating of zero. In comparison, Columbus is currently experiencing 'dangerous' air conditions.
The widespread smoke originates from wildfires in Canada and is expected to continue moving northeastward. The Ohio EPA has advised residents to monitor for symptoms such as coughing or chest tightness and to limit outdoor activities. They also recommend running central air systems with high-efficiency filters and keeping windows closed.
The forecast predicts a chance of thunderstorms throughout the upcoming week, with varying degrees of smoke expected on Friday. Saturday may see increased chances of showers and thunderstorms with high heat index values, before clearer and cooler weather is expected by Sunday.
