07/16/2026
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has declared a Code Red Air Quality Action Day for Particle Pollution for Thursday July 16th, 2026.
The Department is issuing a STATEWIDE CODE RED Air Quality Alert (AQA) for Thursday for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). Wildfire smoke from the Minnesota, USA/Ontario, Canada border will be entering the Commonwealth from the northernmost counties first, then later to the south, this Wednesday afternoon and lingering through Friday. Additionally, a STATEWIDE CODE ORANGE AQA for PM2.5 is forecasted for Friday. Please note that the PM2.5 health standard is based on a 24 hour average, where individual hours will have concentrations higher (and lower) than the forecast. DEP forecasts PM2.5 using this 24 hour framework to help the public understand when overall daily air quality may reach unhealthy levels to sensitive groups (USG – Code Orange) or unhealthy for all (Code Red) and to guide actions that reduce exposure.
Code Red air quality is classified as unhealthy. Some members of the general public may experience negative health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects. Young children, the elderly, those with heart disease, 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. Everyone else should reduce prolonged exposure or heavy exertion.
Guidance on Limiting Exposure
• Limit or avoid outdoor activities.
• Keep indoor air safe by closing windows. If you have air conditioning and your system allows it, consider using the indoor recirculating function and/or installing a high efficiency filter.
• Be aware that an N95 mask can provide some protection; however, surgical and cloth masks will not provide protection due to the size of the pollution particles.
Ways to Reduce Air Pollution
• Limit the use of fire pits.
• Conserve electricity by setting air conditioning to a higher temperature.
• Combine errands to reduce vehicle trips.
• Limit engine idling.
• Refuel cars and trucks after dusk.
• Limit oil-based cooking, such as grilling or frying food.
Resources
• Monitor the Air Quality in your Area (airnow.gov)
• Air Quality Guide for Particle Pollution (www.airnow.gov/sites/default/files/2023-03/air-quality-guide-for-particle-pollution_0.pdf)
• Guidance for Schools & Camps (www.airnow.gov/sites/default/files/2018-09/air-quality-and-outdoor-activity-guidance-2014.pdf)
If you are experiencing severe shortness of breath or chest tightness, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If you are experiencing minor or controllable symptoms, consider contacting your health care provider.
