Update: June 9, 2023 - The Code Orange Air Quality Alert has been lifted for most of North Carolina, including all of the West. According to the latest statement from the NC Department of Environmental Quality, smoke from Canada continues to travel south, fine particle pollution will remain elevated in parts of North Carolina on Friday. For the latest air quality information, visit NCDEQ's Air Quality Portal online and check out the Environmental Protection Agency's air quality sitehere.
The nine-county Triad region will be under a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for fine particle pollution all day tomorrow, June 9. This alert is active for Randolph, Davidson, Davie, Alamance, Guilford, Forsyth, Caswell, Rockingham and Stokes counties. The rest of the state is forecast in the Code Yellow range for fine particulates, also known as PM2.5.
Code Yellow is not considered an air quality action day. People who are unusually sensitive to air pollution may still consider shortening their time being active outside if they experience any symptoms. Healthy adults can go about their day as normal.
June 8, 2023 - A Code Orange Air Quality Alert is in effect for all of North Carolina due to smoke funneling into the region from raging Canadian wildfires. The color-coded alerts issued by the NC Department of Environmental Quality signal the potential for health impacts from significantly elevated levels of fine particulate matter (PM2.5. PM2.5) - particles smaller than the width of a human hair. These particles can reach deep in the lungs and aggravate asthma and other lung conditions and have been linked to heart conditions.
According to NCDEQ, smoke and accompanying high levels of PM2.5 started drifting downwind from Canada into North Carolina on Tuesday, leading to levels in the Code Red range in parts of Central and Eastern NC and Code Orange for much of the West.
Since then, PM2.5 levels have lowered significantly, but the state remains in the Code Orange level on Thursday. DEQ meteorologists say smoky conditions may persist through Friday, but a low-pressure system is hoped to move smoke eastward going into the weekend.
What do the colors mean?
🟢 Green (Good): When the air quality is labeled green, it means the air is generally clean and poses no significant health risks. You can enjoy outdoor activities without worry.
🟡 Yellow (Moderate): A yellow alert indicates that the air quality is slightly compromised. Sensitive individuals, such as those with respiratory conditions, might experience some discomfort. It's wise to limit prolonged outdoor exposure and take necessary measures to protect your health.
🟠 Orange (Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups): Orange alerts signify that the air quality has worsened and could be harmful, especially for vulnerable populations. Individuals with respiratory issues, older adults, and children should avoid strenuous outdoor activities. Take precautions like reducing exposure and following medical advice if necessary.
🔴 Red (Unhealthy): A red alert indicates poor air quality that can affect everyone's health, not just sensitive groups. It is advised to limit outdoor activities, especially for those with respiratory conditions, the elderly, and children. Stay indoors, and if needed, consult a healthcare professional for guidance.
🟣 Purple (Very Unhealthy): The purple alert is the highest level on the scale and signifies extremely poor air quality. It poses significant health risks for all individuals. Stay indoors, keep windows closed, and use air purifiers if available. Seek medical attention if you experience severe symptoms.
DEQ monitors and forecastsozone and PM2.5 daily using the Air Quality Index (AQI), along with the corresponding AQI color codes, to help North Carolinians plan their outdoor activities. Next-day and extended products are issued by 3 p.m. with a morning update by 10 a.m.
For the latest air quality information, visit the Air Quality Portal online. DEQ’s website has a list of resources for keeping safe around wildfire smoke.
