What does Code Red air quality mean? Weather Talk explains

Key Points:

• Canadian wildfire smoke is causing poor air quality across Maryland, with conditions expected to worsen through Friday, prompting health officials to urge residents to stay indoors and limit outdoor exposure.
• The Maryland Department of the Environment (MDE) has issued a Code Orange air quality alert for most of the state on Thursday, escalating to a Code Red alert on Friday, which is unhealthy for all residents.
• Health experts warn that poor air quality can cause coughing, wheezing, inflammation, and increase risks of chest pain or stroke, especially for individuals with heart or vascular conditions.
• Masks are unlikely to provide sufficient protection against the fine particles in the wildfire smoke, so limiting time outdoors and avoiding physical exertion during high pollution levels is recommended.
• Residents experiencing persistent symptoms such as coughing are advised to seek medical attention, and businesses like Value Remodeling are taking precautions by allowing workers to leave if they feel unwell.