South central Pennsylvania is experiencing dangerous air quality levels this morning − the highest it has been in several days since smoke from the Canadian wildfires moved into the region.
As of this morning, AirNow is reporting hazardous air quality for York and Lebanon counties.
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In both Lebanon and York counties, the air quality index was 457, one of the highest levels. The scale runs from zero to 500, and the hazardous conditions fall into 301 to 500 range.
With the dangerous air pollution, everyone is advised to avoid outdoor activities, according to a guide provided by the United States Environmental Protection Agency.
People who are sensitive to air pollution should stay indoors and keep activities low, the guide states. Those who do not have air conditioning should seek out a place that has it.
Smoke from the Canadian wildfires has overspread the area for a few days, and so far, the worst of the air pollution in south central Pennsylvania is being recorded today.
Central Pennsylvania is among the hardest hit regions in the nation as of this morning, according to AirNow.
Unclear if this is the worst air quality here ever
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It isn’t clear if this is the worst air quality the region has experienced historically, but Kevin Stewart, director of environmental health with the American Lung Association, said he doesn’t recall anything worse in his career with the organization.
“… there may have been local problems in York County that have been as bad at different times in the past, but nothing so widespread as what we’re experiencing now,” he said in an email.
The state Department of Environmental Protection is looking into the historical records.
“I can’t say definitively, but it is some of the worst ever. Certainly highest in over two decades if you’re looking for a comparison point,” said Neil Shader, state DEP director of communications.
Take these steps to protect your lungs
The association offers tips for people to avoid lung irritation and health complications from the air pollution.
They are:
- Stay indoors. Avoid breathing smoke, ashes or other pollution.
- Protect the air in your home. Keep doors, windows, and fireplace dampers shut. If you can, keep clean air circulating through air conditioners on the recirculation setting.
- Keep an eye on symptoms. Breathing can be more difficult. Contact your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms.
- Take precautions for children. Precautions should be taken for children and teens whose lungs are still developing and breathe in more air for their size than adults.
- Ask for help. Call the association’s lung helpline with questions, including how to protect yourself. It is staffed by nurses and respiratory therapists. The number is 1-800-LUNGUSA.
Poor air quality forces cancellations of activities
The hazy, smoky conditions have forced changes in plans for some.
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Dallastown Area School District canceled all outdoor activities, including field trips and sporting events, according to a Tweet.
The York Revolution postponed its June 8 game with the Staten Island FerryHawks. The game will be made up on Tuesday, June 27.
How long will the smoke from the wildfires stick around?
So how long will these smoke conditions last?
It looks like the smoke will stick around through Friday, National Weather Service meteorologist Steve Travis said.
A few showers or a thunderstorm might help to alleviate conditions on Friday, he said. The forecast calls for a 60 percent chance of precipitation.
Beyond Friday, it is difficult to predict if the smoke will continue affect the area, Travis said.
No fires allowed:Burn ban in effect for all of York County as drought development likely for the area
Canada wildfire smoke updates:At least 100 million Americans affected by air quality alerts
Source: https://t-tees.com
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