Washington issues air quality alert after delayed Independence Day fireworks display
A delayed fireworks show over the National Mall prompted a Code Red Air Quality Alert, with officials warning residents, especially vulnerable groups, to limit outdoor exposure.
Washington, D.C., declared a Code Red Air Quality Alert on Sunday after a delayed Independence Day fireworks display generated smoke that officials said made air quality unhealthy for seniors, children and people with medical conditions. The 40-minute show, featuring about 850,000 fireworks launched from ten sites, began after 11 p.m. following an evacuation order prompted by record-high temperatures of 103 °F.
City alerts warned that the general public might experience health issues and that individuals with asthma or other lung diseases could face more serious problems. Internal National Park Service documents reviewed by media outlets had earlier cautioned that pollution levels could reach “very unhealthy” and advised residents to limit exposure.
"The general public may experience health issues," the alert read, adding that those with asthma or other lung diseases "may experience more serious health issues."
Health experts noted that large fireworks releases fine particulate matter containing toxic metals, which can aggravate respiratory conditions. Professor George Thurston of New York University suggested wearing an N95 mask as a precaution, a recommendation also echoed by the National Park Service.
The event, promoted by the president as the "largest fireworks show in history," was delayed and extended into the early hours of July 5, with smoke lingering over the city for several hours after the finale.
