A statewide code orange air quality alert has been issued for Monday.
That means young children, the elderly and people with respiratory problems should limit outdoor activities for risk of exposure to elevated air pollution.
According to the state Department of Environmental Protection, smoke from Canadian wildfires is expected to impact air quality all day.
Several locations could see an increase in particulates that put air quality into the code red zone, DEP officials said.
Residents and businesses should help reduce fine particulate matter air pollution by not burning leaves or trash, and by not using gas-powered lawnmowers and other garden equipment.
Smoke and storms? That's Monday! Isolated strong to severe storms are possible during the afternoon and evening, with large hail and damaging wind possible in the strongest storms. Be sure to check back for an update tomorrow! pic.twitter.com/mDKg3xWJWa
— NWS Pittsburgh (@NWSPittsburgh) July 16, 2023
During last month’s string of poor air quality days in Pittsburgh, medical experts issued advice that includes staying hydrated to help negate the impact of pollution.
Maureen Lichtveld, dean of the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, said that while people with health conditions are most at risk during difficult air conditions, smoke-polluted air is not good for anyone.
