Code Red in Pa. for Air Quality

July 16, 2026

Pennsylvania declared a statewide Code Red for air quality today due to thick wildfire smoke from Canada and Minnesota that is blanketing the northeast.

The state Department of Environmental Protection said the smoke began entering the state’s northernmost counties Wednesday before pushing into southern counties overnight.

Here’s what you need to know:

• What it means:  Code Red signals the air has unhealthy levels of fine particulate matter.
• Taking precaution:  People with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens should reduce their exposure and keep outdoor activities short.
  • Everyone should reduce exposure and choose less strenuous activities while the Code Red is in effect.
• Reducing pollutants:  Businesses and individuals can help reduce air pollutants by avoiding the use of gas-powered lawn and garden equipment; reducing or eliminating fireplace and wood stove use; and avoiding the open burning of leaves, trash, and other materials.
• Where to check:  Air quality will vary across Pennsylvania. Find updated information about the air quality in your area online.
• Worse conditions:  Code Purple (very unhealthy) and Maroon (hazardous) signal even worse conditions for air pollutants. See this guide for the details.

Additional information about the Code Red declaration is available online.