Due to western Canadian wildfires, Western North Carolina is currently experiencing code Orange levels of particle pollution, which is considered unhealthy for sensitive groups. Children, teenagers, older adults, people with heart and lung disease such as asthma, and people who are active outdoors, are all considered sensitive groups to PM exposure. It is recommended that these groups limit prolonged or intense exertion outdoors and that they take frequent breaks.
Tuesday, July 18, 2023, is a code ORANGE air quality forecast day for the valleys and ridgetops of Asheville and Buncombe County. This means that air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Children, active adults, and those with heart or respiratory disease, including asthma, should limit outdoor activity.
An ORANGE forecast means it is an Air Quality Action Day for Buncombe County. NO OPEN BURNING allowed.
Please visit here for up-to-date forecasts and in-depth discussion.
Note: Open Burning is generally PROHIBITED on Air Quality Action Days. Burning trash and other non-vegetative material is ALWAYS PROHIBITED.
Care for the Air
— Drive less: carpool, vanpool, take the bus, telecommute.
— Conserve electricity.
— Pack a lunch or walk to lunch.
— Avoid idling your vehicle.
— Refuel and mow after 6:00pm.Air Quality Index (AQI)
Green………..0- 50 AQI……..Good air quality. No health risks are expected. Enjoy outdoor
……………………………………….activities!
Yellow…….51-100 AQI……..Moderate air quality. Air quality is okay, but unusually sensitive
……………………………………….people may be affected, especially when the AQI nears 100.
Orange….101-150 AQI……..Air quality is Unhealthy For Sensitive Groups. Children,
……………………………………….active adults, and those with heart or respiratory disease,
……………………………………….including asthma, should limit outdoor activity.
Red……….151-200 AQI……..Unhealthy air quality. Everyone should avoid prolonged outdoor
……………………………………….activity.
Purple……201-300 AQI……..Very Unhealthy air quality. Everyone should avoid outdoor
……………………………………….activity.For up-to-date forecasts and discussion, visit here.
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