Burlington, Vermont – Fine particulate pollution will bring unhealthy air to much of Vermont from midnight tonight through midnight Tuesday, with the state’s Air Quality Index expected to reach 151 across the northern and central counties. Residents in Burlington, Montpelier, St. Albans, and surrounding towns may face elevated health risks, especially if they have asthma, heart disease, or other respiratory conditions.
According to the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources, an Air Quality Health Advisory is in effect for Caledonia, Essex, Grand Isle, Franklin, Addison, Chittenden, Lamoille, Orange, Orleans, and Washington counties. The alert warns of fine particulates in the air that could make outdoor activity hazardous—especially for children, seniors, and anyone with underlying health issues.
Communities in Western and Eastern Chittenden, Caledonia, Essex, and Franklin counties—including Johnson, Stowe, Island Pond, Randolph, Bristol, and Ripton—should limit strenuous outdoor activities. The Department of Health advises everyone to keep quick-relief inhalers on hand and to follow personal asthma or heart action plans. If symptoms such as shortness of breath or palpitations develop, seek medical attention promptly.
Schools and outdoor workplaces should monitor air conditions closely and consider postponing physical activities or outdoor shifts. Residents are urged to check the latest advisories at the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources website.
The Air Quality Alert remains in effect through midnight Tuesday. More advisories may follow if conditions worsen.
