CHARLESTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – The West Virginia Department of Environmental Protection has issued a Code Red Air Quality Alert for Friday, July 17, as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to impact much of the state.
The alert covers northern and central West Virginia, including portions of southern West Virginia, where elevated levels of fine particulate matter are expected through Friday and into Saturday.
Hazy skies are anticipated statewide. A Code Purple Air Quality Alert, indicating very unhealthy air quality, has also been issued for the Northern Panhandle.
A Code Red Air Quality Alert means air pollution levels are considered unhealthy for the general public. State officials recommend limiting prolonged outdoor activities, particularly strenuous exercise.
Those most at risk include children, older adults, people with asthma or other lung diseases, and individuals with heart disease.
Residents are encouraged to reduce time spent outdoors, keep windows and doors closed when possible, and use air conditioning on the recirculate setting if available.
Officials advise West Virginians to continue monitoring local air quality conditions and take appropriate precautions until conditions improve.
