Air Quality In Limerick: "Very Unhealthy"

LIMERICK, PA —The air quality in Limerick at 11:30 a.m. has moved from the burgundy level, which is hazardous to the purple level, which is very unhealthy for all people. The Air Quality Index reached 278 by 11 a.m., moving into a better range than earlier in the day when it was over 30o.

There was no early morning rush-hour traffic with commuters on Routes 202 and 422, the Pennsylvania Turnpike at Valley Forge, or the other roadways. Valley Forge National Park, which typically has walkers, bikers and runners on the trails and around the National Memorials Arch, was barren.

Due to the hazardous conditions, all outdoor programs were canceled in Valley Forge, the encampment site of George Washington’s Continental Army in the winter of 1777-1778. There were no school closings reported. Sports and other outdoor activities were canceled.

Wegmans in King of Prussia was filling up with shoppers stocking up in preparation for staying home for the remainder of the day. People with heart or lung diseases, older adults and teens should reduce outdoor activities or keep outdoor activities short. Everyone else should also reduce outdoor exposure and choose less strenuous activities.

Why is the air still bad?

The smoke from the wildfires over eastern Canada continues to be the driver for higher air quality in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Agency.
The worst air quality is expected Thursday with gradually improving conditions on Friday. Good to moderate air quality is expected over the weekend into early next week.

Officials report widespread smoke continues to burn across eastern Canada.

The perfect combination of an area of low pressure across Nova Scotia and an area of high pressure stationed over the Hudson Bay region of Canada continue to keep northerly wind flow across much of Pennsylvania.

This is reminiscent of what unfolded in early July 2002 when forest fires in a similar region of Canada impacted our area. If you experience symptoms like trouble breathing or dizziness, you should seek medical attention.

If you know a family member or neighbor who has one of the above conditions, remember to check in on them. Visit www.airnow.gov to find the latest air quality levels and recommendations for your location.