Columbus, Ohio – Wildfire smoke continues to blanket Ohio, prompting a statewide Air Quality Advisory as pollution levels range from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Unhealthy, with some locations briefly reaching Very Unhealthy or Hazardous conditions.
According to the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, elevated concentrations of fine particulate matter from Canadian wildfire smoke are impacting much of the state. Air quality has deteriorated across most regions, increasing health risks for people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children and anyone spending extended time outdoors.
The Ohio EPA advises residents to avoid strenuous outdoor activities whenever possible, especially those with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions. Anyone experiencing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing, chest tightness, shortness of breath, dizziness or irritation of the eyes, nose or throat should move indoors and seek medical advice if symptoms worsen.
Officials also recommend reducing indoor smoke exposure by keeping windows and doors closed, running central air conditioning with MERV-13 or higher filters when available, and avoiding activities that create indoor pollution, including burning candles, using fireplaces or wood-burning stoves.
The Air Quality Index (AQI) ranges from Good (0-50) to Hazardous (301-500). As pollution levels increase, health recommendations become more restrictive. Sensitive groups should begin limiting outdoor activity when AQI reaches 101, while everyone should reduce outdoor exertion once AQI exceeds 150. At 201 or higher, residents are urged to avoid prolonged outdoor activity, and at 301 or above, everyone should remain indoors as much as possible.
The Ohio EPA encourages residents to monitor real-time air quality conditions at AirNow.gov as smoke concentrations may change throughout the day. Additional air quality advisories could be issued if wildfire smoke continues to impact the state through the weekend.
