Harrisburg, Pennsylvania – Outdoor activity across south-central Pennsylvania could pose health risks on Tuesday as air pollution levels rise to unhealthy levels for sensitive groups throughout the Susquehanna Valley.
According to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, a Code Orange Air Quality Alert is in effect Tuesday for Dauphin, Lebanon, Cumberland, York, and Lancaster counties. The alert signals that concentrations of fine particles and ground-level ozone may reach levels that can trigger health issues for children, older adults, and people with asthma, heart disease, or other lung conditions.
Communities including Harrisburg, Lebanon, Carlisle, York, and Lancaster are expected to see the highest impacts during the afternoon and early evening hours, when pollution levels typically peak. Health officials advise residents in sensitive groups to avoid strenuous outdoor activities, especially exercise that increases breathing rates. Even healthy individuals may notice symptoms such as throat irritation or shortness of breath with prolonged outdoor exertion.
Local agencies recommend limiting vehicle use where possible, postponing outdoor workouts, and keeping windows closed during peak pollution periods. Schools, daycare centers, and elder care facilities are encouraged to adjust outdoor schedules accordingly.
Air quality conditions are expected to improve after Tuesday evening as atmospheric conditions change. Additional alerts could be issued if pollution levels remain elevated or worsen.
