The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) has issued a Code Purple Air Quality Health Advisory for the Metropolitan Washington region for Friday, July 17. Code Purple means the air quality is very unhealthy for everyone. Smoke from wildfires in Canada is making the air more polluted with fine particles.
Air quality levels can vary across the region and may get worse later in the day. Check local news and weather apps for updates.
Due to this forecast, the Department of Recreation, Parks, and Cultural Activities (RPCA) announced that all outdoor pools will be closed today, Friday, July 17. Indoor pools will remain open. All Summer Camp and other outdoor programs will hold activities indoors today.
Visit AirNow.gov to check current and forecasted air quality and see recommended precautions. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
For more information about specific RPCA’s program cancelations and closures, visit alexandriava.gov/Recreation.
Learn more about air quality in Alexandria and the Air Quality Action Days program at alexandriava.gov/AirQuality.
What does poor air quality mean for you?
Poor air quality in Alexandria can affect people who are unusually sensitive to air pollution, including young children, older adults, and people with respiratory conditions. At Code Purple levels, everyone, not just sensitive groups, may experience health effects.
On poor air quality days:
- Avoid strenuous outdoor activities.
- If you need to be outside, wear a KN95 or N95 to help protect you from smoke particles. Cloth masks are not effective for filtering out smoke.
- Keep outdoor activities short.
- Move physical activities indoors, or reschedule them.
Other air quality and safety tips:
- Refuel vehicles after dusk.
- Conserve electricity and set air conditioners to a higher temperature.
- Choose a cleaner commute: share a ride or use public transportation.
- Combine errands to reduce trips.
- Bring pets indoors to climate-controlled areas.