Home / Weather / Maryland Chokes on Smoke: Code Orange Alert Issued
Maryland Chokes on Smoke: Code Orange Alert Issued
15 Jul
Summary
- Maryland faces Code Orange air quality, unhealthy for sensitive groups.
- Wildfire smoke from Canada and U.S. combines with extreme heat.
- Air quality expected to worsen Thursday and Friday, improving Saturday.
Maryland's air quality has been declared Code Orange, signaling unhealthy conditions for sensitive individuals. This alert affects the Eastern Shore and the Baltimore and Washington D.C. metropolitan areas through at least Friday, July 17. Western and northern Maryland are under a Code Yellow, with Frederick County and eastward expected to shift to Code Orange on Thursday.
The concerning air quality stems from a severe heatwave coupled with smoke from ongoing wildfires in Ontario, Canada, and other parts of North America. This combination exacerbates ozone issues, according to state officials. The National Weather Service has issued heat advisories for most of Maryland, with heat index values predicted to reach up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit.
Health experts advise that even moderate air quality can trigger symptoms in those with asthma or COPD. They recommend closing windows and doors, using air conditioners and purifiers, and wearing N95 or K95 masks when outdoors. Individuals with respiratory conditions are urged to avoid strenuous outdoor activities and consult their doctors.
Forecasters anticipate air quality to be at its worst on Thursday and Friday. A potential shift towards better air quality is expected by Saturday, with the possibility of rain showers and thunderstorms helping to clear the atmosphere.
