Wildfires Causing Unhealthy Air Quality in Pennsylvania

Resource Available for Localized, Real-Time Conditions

June 07, 2023

Today is a Code Red Air Quality Action Day in Pennsylvania as smoke from wildfires in Canada contributes to unhealthy—and even hazardous in some areas—levels of fine particulate matter in the air.

The air you breathe can affect your health and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions can be at high risk for problems. Breathing unhealthy, polluted air can cause a host of respiratory-driven issues, including wheezing and asthma flare-ups.

Pennsylvania’s code red declaration means that air quality is unhealthy. All Pennsylvanians—and especially people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens—should take the following steps to reduce exposure:

• Avoid strenuous outdoor activities
• Keep outdoor activities short
• Consider moving physical activities indoors or rescheduling them

While all parts of the commonwealth are experiencing poor air quality due to elevated fine particulate matter, conditions vary by region with some areas—particularly in the eastern part of the state—reaching very unhealthy and even hazardous levels based on the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Air Quality Index.

For localized, real-time conditions by ZIP code, visit the federal government’s AirNow website.