Chattanooga, Tennessee – Air pollution levels are rising across the Chattanooga metro, prompting a health alert that could impact breathing for sensitive groups through midnight tonight.
According to the Tennessee Department of Environment and Conservation, a Code Orange Air Quality Alert remains in effect until midnight EDT for Hamilton County and surrounding areas, including parts of northwest Georgia and southeast Tennessee. This level indicates particulate matter concentrations may reach levels considered unhealthy for children, older adults, and anyone with respiratory conditions such as asthma.
The alert covers a wide region including Chattanooga, Lookout Mountain, Signal Mountain, Fort Oglethorpe, and Chickamauga, where stagnant air is allowing pollution to build near ground level. Outdoor exertion, especially during the afternoon and early evening hours, could trigger symptoms like coughing or shortness of breath for vulnerable individuals.
Health officials recommend limiting prolonged outdoor activity, particularly for active children and those with preexisting conditions. Residents may also consider reducing vehicle use and avoiding outdoor burning to help limit additional pollution.
Air quality is expected to improve overnight as conditions shift, but additional advisories could be issued if pollutant levels remain elevated into Friday.
