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Washington DC Air Quality Reaches Code Purple Level
Canadian wildfire smoke pushed the Washington DC region's air quality index above 200 on Friday morning. Officials said levels are expected to ease by afternoon.
Jul 17, 7:16 AM·1m read1 source
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Air quality in the Washington DC region reached Code Purple levels early Friday, with the air quality index hitting 250 at 6 a.m. The reading exceeded earlier forecasts that had projected an index between 150 and 200. Smoke from hundreds of wildfires in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Ontario has drifted south on northwest winds.
Purple conditions are classified as very unhealthy.
Sensitive groups are advised to avoid all outdoor activity while the general public should limit prolonged or heavy exertion outside. The National Weather Service attributed the worsening conditions to a weak front that shifted winds northwest, carrying additional smoke into the region.
Forecast The index is projected to remain above 200 through the 9 a.m. hour before falling back into Code Red levels until early afternoon. Saturday is expected to bring moderate conditions, according to AirNow.
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