Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Wildfire smoke blowing into northwestern Pennsylvania is triggering air quality alerts through midnight Monday, with the northern tier counties under a Code Orange warning for health risks to sensitive groups.
According to the National Weather Service in Pittsburgh, smoke concentrations will be highest north of Interstate 80, where visibility may be reduced and air quality degraded due to fine particulate matter from distant wildfires. Residents with asthma, heart conditions, or respiratory sensitivities are urged to limit outdoor activity, especially strenuous exercise.
Counties shaded in the alert zone—including parts of McKean, Warren, and Potter—should take extra precautions as pollutant levels may reach unhealthy levels for sensitive groups. While Pittsburgh and areas south of I-80 are expected to see only minimal sky obscuration, health officials recommend staying aware of shifting smoke patterns throughout the day.
People are advised to keep windows closed, use air purifiers if available, and check on elderly family members or neighbors who may be at higher risk.
This Code Orange alert remains in effect through midnight Monday, and additional alerts may be issued if wildfire smoke persists or intensifies.
