Canadian wildfires, fireworks cause air quality to reach dangerous level for some

The aftermath of America’s birthday has created some danger in the air in Delaware.

The state Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control said “increased particles from overnight regional fireworks” and Canadian wildfire smoke would be the main factors behind an air quality that is “unhealthy for sensitive groups” on July 5. Sunny skies and high temperatures in the upper 80s would also contribute to ozone formation, DNREC said.

DNREC issued an “ozone code orange” air quality forecast. The air could be dangerous for sensitive groups like older adults, young children and those with heart/respiratory conditions. These groups are recommended to limit all outdoor activities, especially “activities with high exertion,” the department said.

How is air quality judged?

Air quality is judged through the Air Quality Index. This rates the severity of air pollution from 0 to 500, with 500 being the worst air quality.

An AQI below 50 is good, between 51 and 100 is considered moderate, and above 100 is considered unhealthy.

For July 5, the AQI ozone forecast is 101 while the AQI for particle pollution is a mid-moderate 71.

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When will air quality return to normal?

According to DNREC, air quality is expected to return to somewhat normal on July 6. An ozone code yellow is expected, implying that the air quality is “acceptable.” The particle pollution forecast is also code yellow.

Those looking for more information on Delaware’s air quality can view Delaware’s air data at airnow.gov or de.gov/airdata for current air monitoring data.

Adam Denn is an intern for Delaware Online/The News Journal. You can reach him at ADenn@gannett.com