Toxic air triggers 'Code Orange' alert for thousands

"A Code Orange air quality alert has been issued for thousands on Tuesday due to high levels of air pollution. The alert covers the Liberty and Clairton area in Pennsylvania, including Clairton, Glassport, Lincoln and Port Vue, as well as the Susquehanna Valley, including Dauphin, Lebanon, Cumberland, York and Lancaster counties. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) warned that pollution levels may become unhealthy for sensitive groups, including children, the elderly, and people with asthma, heart disease, or other lung conditions."

"The poor air quality is caused by elevated fine particulate matter (PM2.5) trapped near the ground by a combination of light winds, snow cover, and morning temperature inversions, which prevent pollutants from dispersing. National Weather Service (NWS) forecaster David Martin explained that these inversions occur when a layer of warm air sits above cooler air at ground level, keeping smoke, haze, and other pollutants stagnant."

"Those in these groups are advised to avoid outdoor exercise or strenuous activity, as even brief exposure can cause coughing, shortness of breath, chest discomfort or eye and throat irritation. The alert is expected to remain in effect throughout the day, and officials urge residents to stay informed, limit outdoor activities, and take protective measures, such as keeping windows closed or using air purifiers indoors. While the general population may not be severely affected, caution is essential for those most at risk."

A Code Orange air quality alert affects Liberty and Clairton area including Clairton, Glassport, Lincoln and Port Vue, and the Susquehanna Valley including Dauphin, Lebanon, Cumberland, York and Lancaster counties. Elevated fine particulate matter (PM2.5) is trapped near the ground by light winds, snow cover and morning temperature inversions, preventing dispersal and keeping smoke, haze and pollutants stagnant. Pollution may become unhealthy for sensitive groups such as children, the elderly and people with asthma, heart disease or lung conditions. Those groups should avoid outdoor exercise or strenuous activity and take protective measures like keeping windows closed or using air purifiers.

Read at Mail Online