Air Quality In Radnor Thursday Night: Unhealthy

RADNOR, PA —Smoke was still in the air in Radnor Thursday night, and it won't be gone Friday, forecasters predict.

The township's Air Pollution Index was in the category of "unhealthy" Thursday night. The recovery of the air quality is expected to continue over the weekend.

The Air Pollution Index was at 170 at 8 p.m., an improvement from early in the morning when the index was over 300.

The sun was shining and the bright orange skies were nearly gone late afternoon Thursday, but the air was still thick.

What's next?

Thursday night the Air Now Index provided by the federal Environmental Protection Agency predicted unhealthy conditions for Friday for sensitive groups, which include people with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens.

As a result, everyone is asked to shorten the amount of time outdoors and reduce strenuous activities.

Schools have not been canceled, but outdoor activities are expected to be limited.

Forecasters predict the air quality will improve Saturday to moderate.

Thursday Update

There was no early morning rush-hour or 5 p.m. traffic with commuters on Routes 30, 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 was empty.

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.

Shoppers stocked up with food in preparation for staying home for the remainder of the day.

Why is the air still bad?

The smoke from the wildfires over eastern Canada continued to impact the air quality in Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection Agency.

This is reminiscent of what unfolded in early July 2002 when forest fires in a similar region of Canada impacted our area.

What to do if you feel faint?

If you experience symptoms like trouble breathing or dizziness, seek medical attention.
If you know a family member or neighbor has special conditions, you can check to see if they need help. Visit www.airnow.gov to find the latest air quality levels and recommendations for your location.