Maryland Raises Air Alert to Code Purple, Canceling Pools and Outdoor Events Statewide
Updated
Updated · WBAL TV Baltimore · Jul 17
Maryland Raises Air Alert to Code Purple, Canceling Pools and Outdoor Events Statewide
3 articles · Updated · WBAL TV Baltimore · Jul 17
Summary
Maryland escalated most of Friday's air quality alert from Code Red to Code Purple as Canadian wildfire smoke worsened, before Baltimore City eased back to Code Red by mid-afternoon.
Code Purple means very unhealthy air for the general population, prompting advice to avoid strenuous outdoor activity; a Johns Hopkins doctor said masks may not fully block the smallest smoke particles.
Baltimore City closed all outdoor public pools, canceled outdoor recreation events and suspended trash and recycling pickups, while Baltimore County shut parks and beaches and other camps moved activities indoors.
The smoke also forced quick changes at programs including Horizon Day Camp, with children kept inside and pools closed, while the Maryland SPCA limited pets to brief outdoor breaks.
Forecasters said severe thunderstorms possible Saturday could improve air quality, though they may also bring damaging winds, hail, heavy rain and isolated power outages.