Washington, D.C. is once again facing unhealthy air conditions as smoke from Canadian wildfires continues to overtake the East Coast.
The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments has placed D.C. under Code Red for the Air Quality Index on Thursday, June 29. The air quality was forecast at 182 by D.C.’s Capital Weather Gang, which is unhealthy for all groups.
This isn’t the first time D.C. has faced unhealthy air conditions this month. Earlier this month when the Canadian wildfires first began, D.C.’s air quality was Code Purple, reaching over 250 on the Air Quality Index on Thursday, June 8—the District’s worst air quality ever recorded.
There are currently 490 wildfires burning in all of Canada, according to Associated Press.
Washingtonians and tourists are encouraged to revisit these precautions D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser and the Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments suggested to protect yourself from the smoke-filled air, including:
- Refrain from exercising or partaking in other strenuous activities outside.
- Vulnerable citizens such as pregnant women, children, and the elderly are encouraged to stay inside as much as possible.
- Utilize an air filter.
- Wear an N95 when you need to be outside.
- Contact your doctor for advice or medication if you suffer from asthma, chronic lung disease, or heart disease.
The air quality is expected to worsen or continue at least through midnight Friday, June 30.