The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments has forecast a Code Orange air day for Tuesday, Aug. 27, in D.C., Northern Virginia and parts of suburban Maryland.
Code Orange levels mean the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups.
Air quality levels can vary across the region, COG said in a news release. Residents can check current air quality conditions near them on COG’s website or the Clean Air Partners website. Conditions could also be favorable for another Code Orange forecast on Wednesday. Forecasts are updated around 4 p.m. each day on COG’s website.
On unhealthy air days, COG advises area residents to take the following actions:
- Avoid lawn mowing or use an electric mower.
- Use gas or electric grills instead of charcoal.
- Fill your vehicles’ gas tank after sunset.
- Take transit, carpool, or work from home.
- Turn off lights and electronics when not in use and follow tips from your electric utility about how to use less electricity to cool your home.
COG, in partnership with the District Department of Energy & Environment and Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, provides daily air quality forecasts for the Northern Virginia/District of Columbia region.
