BETHLEHEM, Pa. — Hundreds of active wildfires across Canada, with a significant portion burning out of control, have again sent smoke drifting into the United States — including the Lehigh Valley.
The state Department of Environmental Protection has issued a code orange air quality action day Tuesday, with smoke expanding across the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic.
Unlike other days this year, when smoke was mostly aloft, near-surface smoke will be present, along with its accompanying smell, officials said.
A persistent high-pressure weather system over the East Coast won’t help, experts say. Instead, it will act as a lid this week, trapping the smoke and causing hazy conditions through at least Friday.
Air quality in the Lehigh Valley
Based on real-time data early Tuesday, areas across the region were experiencing moderate levels of air quality.
Bethlehem had an AQI about 104, while Allentown was at 113 — placing them in the code orange (100-150) category.
At that level, air is deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups, specifically children, older adults and individuals with respiratory or cardiovascular conditions.
Folks falling into the latter categories are advised to limit outdoor activity, particularly strenuous activities.
Hourly forecasts indicate some improvement throughout the day, with the AQI falling into the 90s by the afternoon.
Health impacts, advice
Wildfire smoke contains fine particulates that can penetrate deep into the lungs and bloodstream.
Experts say eye, nose and throat irritation are common even at low concentrations.
Exposure can trigger inflammation, asthma exacerbations, COPD flare-ups, bronchitis and cardiovascular symptoms such as chest pain, rapid heartbeat and fatigue, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, AirNow.gov and more.
Residents are advised to keep windows closed and consider using an N95 or KN95 mask if outdoor exposure is unavoidable.
