Philadelphia, PA – Millions across the Mid-Atlantic are under a Code Orange Air Quality Alert through midnight Thursday, with state agencies warning residents—especially vulnerable groups—to limit time outdoors due to elevated ozone and fine particulate levels.
According to the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation, fine particle pollution in the Hudson Valley—including Ulster and Dutchess counties—is expected to exceed an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 100, posing health risks for those with asthma, heart conditions, or other respiratory issues. Similar alerts have been issued by state and regional agencies across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.
In Pennsylvania, the Department of Environmental Protection flagged the entire Pittsburgh metro area, including Allegheny, Beaver, and Washington counties. In Maryland, Code Orange alerts cover suburban D.C., Baltimore, and Cecil County. Northern Virginia counties like Loudoun, Arlington, and Fairfax are also affected, as is the entire D.C. area.
Health officials urge sensitive individuals—children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions—to avoid strenuous outdoor activity. Schools, camps, and workplaces are advised to limit prolonged outdoor exposure. Residents are also encouraged to reduce emissions by carpooling or using public transit.
Air quality levels may improve by Friday, but regional officials caution that further alerts are possible if ozone concentrations remain elevated.
