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Canadian wildfires prompt Air Quality Action Day again Thursday

Thursday, June 29, 2023 at 3:52 AM

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The Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) has forecasted another statewide Air Quality Action Day (AQAD) for Thursday.

Current air monitor readings across the state remain very high as the Canadian wildfire plume continues to move slowly through the state. Particulates are expected to be in the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups range (Orange).

IDEM encourages everyone to help reduce PM2.5 by making changes to daily habits. You can:

Carpool or use public transportation. Avoid using the drive-through and combine errands into one trip. Turn off engines instead of idling for long periods of time. Avoid using gas-powered equipment. Conserve energy by turning off lights and setting the air conditioner to a higher setting; Use propane gas instead of charcoal when grilling outdoors; Reminder: Indiana’s open burning laws make it illegal to burn trash and generally prohibit open burning, visit IN.gov/openburning for more information.

PM2.5 is composed of microscopic dust, soot, and liquid that settles deep into the lungs and cannot be easily exhaled. Those people at risk are particularly vulnerable after several days of high PM2.5 exposure. Sensitive Groups should reduce or avoid exertion and heavy work outdoors during these conditions. IDEM examines weather patterns and PM2.5 readings to make daily air quality forecasts. Air Quality Action Days generally occur when weather conditions such as light winds, snow cover, higher humidity, and lower atmospheric inversions trap pollutants close to the ground.

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