Maryland faces Code Red air quality alert as Canadian wildfire smoke spreads
The Maryland Department of the Environment warned that smoke from Canadian wildfires will push air quality to Code Red levels on Friday, prompting health officials to urge residents to stay indoors and limit exposure.
Smoke from wildfires in Canada is drifting into the Mid-Atlantic, prompting the Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) to issue a Code Orange air quality alert on Thursday and warn that a Code Red alert, which is unhealthy for the entire population, is likely on Friday. The agency said the poor air quality could extend into Saturday.
MDE air-quality meteorologist Joel Dreessen advised residents to plan their day to reduce exposure, adding that outdoor exercise should be avoided when pollutant concentrations are unhealthy. He emphasized that the goal is to help people understand the potential health impacts.
Johns Hopkins pulmonologist Dr. Panagis Galiatsatos said the fine particles can cause coughing, wheezing and inflammation, and may trigger cardiovascular events such as chest pain or stroke days after exposure. He cautioned that typical face masks are unlikely to filter the tiny particles and recommended seeing a doctor if symptoms persist.
Local business owner Dave Sakin, who runs a remodeling company, said he monitors weather and air-quality conditions and tells his crews to stop work if they feel unwell, noting that “nothing we’re doing is an emergency, so it’s best for them not to have an emergency.”
Health officials also suggested staying indoors as much as possible, including using vehicle recirculation settings to keep smoky air out.