Wildfire Smoke Wreaking Havoc With Pittsburgh Air Quality

PITTSBURGH, PA — Smoke from Canadian wildfires is having a profound effect on Western Pennsylvania.

The state Department of Environmental Protection has issued a Code Red Alert for the following counties: Allegheny, Butler, Washington, Beaver, Westmoreland, McKean, Crawford, Mercer, Venango, Forest, Elk, Lawrence, Clarion, Armstrong, Jefferson, Clearfield, Indiana, Cambria, Greene and Fayette counties.

On a Code Red Air Quality Action Day, young children, the elderly, and those with respiratory problems, such as asthma, emphysema, and bronchitis, are especially vulnerable to the
effects of air pollution and should avoid outdoor activities, and all others should reduce prolonged and heavy exertion.

As of Wednesday morning, the region's Air Quality Index was at 221, which is staggeringly unhealthy. Healthy levels are below 100.

The Code Red Alert currently is expected to expire at midnight.