Today started off sunny, but as the afternoon progressed, clouds and wildfire smoke from Canada began to obscure the sky. The smoke has thickened throughout the evening, reducing local visibility to about 5 miles. As the smoke plume slowly moves eastward, visibility is expected to decrease further tonight. Similar conditions are anticipated for tomorrow.

Tonight’s Forecast

This evening, poor air quality will persist, and there is a likelihood that it will worsen overnight, although it may reach a plateau at some point. Code Red conditions have already been reported in the hills north and west of the area during the late afternoon. The weather will be partly to mostly clear, with temperatures dropping into the 60s and light north winds.

Tomorrow’s Outlook

Thursday’s weather will be similar to today, possibly with fewer clouds, but an equal or greater amount of smoke and haze. The smoke will act as a filter, keeping temperatures slightly cooler, with highs mainly in the mid-80s.

Code Red Alert

A Code Red alert is expected across the Mid-Atlantic region tomorrow. It is important to note that Code Red refers to daily average values, which means there is a possibility of experiencing Code Purple or worse hourly readings.

Hagerstown, Md., has already reached Code Red levels this afternoon, and this air quality is projected to move into the local area tonight. With Code Red or worse conditions extending from Iowa and Minnesota to our region, and an incoming smoke plume from Canada, the Code Red alert for Thursday is highly likely.

Health Precautions

Remember, Code Red or higher air quality is unhealthy for the general population. It is advisable to limit outdoor activities whenever possible to minimize exposure.

(Source: The Washington Post)