Air Quality Alert Issued for City of Alexandria, Closures Announced 

Page updated on December 11, 2023 at 8:58 AM
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For Immediate Release: June 29, 2023

A Code Red Air Quality Health Advisory was announced for the region for today, Thursday, June 29. This forecast means air quality is expected to be unhealthy for everyone, especially individuals with heart and breathing ailments, children, and older adults.

Today, take these steps to reduce exposure:

  • Avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
  • Keep outdoor activities short.
  • Consider moving physical activities indoors or rescheduling them.

The Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities (RPCA) announced that all outdoor pools will be closed today, Thursday, June 29. Sports fields will be reassessed this afternoon for closures. All Summer Camp programs will hold activities indoors today.

Other air quality and safety tips include: 

  • Refuel vehicles after dusk.
  • Conserve electricity and set your air conditioner at a higher temperature.
  • Choose a cleaner commute—share a ride to work or use public transportation.
  • Combine errands and reduce trips.
  • Bring pets indoors to climate-controlled areas.
  • Animals who remain outside (working animals, farm animals, etc.) must have access to plenty of water and shade.

Tomorrow, June 30, a Code Orange Air Quality Index is projected, which may be unhealthy for sensitive groups. Saturday, July 1, a Code Yellow Air Quality Index is projected, which may impact those unusually sensitive to air pollution.

Residents are encouraged to visit Airnow.gov to monitor current and forecasted conditions and suggested preventative actions.

For more information about specific RPCA’s program cancelations and closures, visit alexandriava.gov/Recreation.

For more information about air quality in Alexandria, and the Air Quality Action Days program, visit alexandriava.gov/AirQuality.

For inquiries from the news media only, contact the Office of Communications & Public Information at newsroom@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.3969.

If you prefer communication in another language, free interpretation and translation services are available to you, please call 703.746.3961 or email genevieve.babecki@alexandriava.gov.

This news release is available at alexandriava.gov/go/4743

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About the City of Alexandria
Founded in 1749, the City of Alexandria is a full-service, independent, city in Virginia with a AAA/aaa credit rating and a national reputation for progressive and responsible government. With a fast-paced business environment and walkable neighborhoods, Alexandria is a world-class destination where businesses and nonprofits choose to call home. Alexandria’s ample office space and urban amenities offer room to grow – a value unmatched in the region. Located minutes from the nation’s capital, Alexandria’s old-world charm and cutting-edge innovation are the perfect mix for attracting a diverse community, talented workforce, and enthusiastic visitors.