100 Sucks

The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has declared a statewide Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for Particle Pollution for Saturday, July 18, 2026, for fine particulate matter (PM2.5). High levels of PM2.5 will linger Saturday morning. However, these concentrations will lower during the afternoon as southwesterly winds transport in cleaner air.

Code Orange air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Sensitive groups are especially vulnerable to the effects of air pollution and should limit outdoor activities. Everyone else is less likely to be affected.

Guidance on Limiting Exposure
· Everyone: Consider reducing the length or intensity of outdoor activities and taking more frequent breaks when outdoors.
· Sensitive Groups: Individuals with chronic conditions such as heart and lung disease, older adults, children and teenagers, pregnant women, and people with limited ability to reduce exposures to outdoor air should shorten outdoor activities and take more frequent breaks.
· Keep indoor air safe by closing windows. If you have air conditioning and your system allows it, consider using the indoor recirculating function and/or installing a high efficiency filter. If you do not have air conditioning, staying inside with windows closed may be dangerous in hot weather. If you are hot, go someplace with air conditioning. Check 211 (www.pa211.org) to find a cooling center near you.
· Be aware that an N95 mask can provide some protection; however, surgical and cloth masks will not provide protection due to the size of the pollution particles.

If you are experiencing severe shortness of breath or chest tightness, call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room. If you are experiencing minor or controllable symptoms, consider contacting your health care provider.

What to Expect in the Days Ahead
Improvement in air quality is expected over the weekend starting Saturday afternoon with showers and thunderstorms expected.

Ways to Reduce Air Pollution
• Limit the use of fire pits.
• Conserve electricity by setting air conditioning to a higher temperature.
• Combine errands to reduce vehicle trips.
• Limit engine idling.
• Refuel cars and trucks after dusk.
• Limit oil-based cooking, such as grilling or frying food.

Resources
· Monitor the Air Quality in your Area (https://www.airnow.gov/)
· Air Quality Guide for Particle Pollution (https://www.airnow.gov/sites/default/files/2023-03/air-quality-guide-for-particle-pollution_0.pdf)
· Guidance for Schools & Camps (https://www.airnow.gov/sites/default/files/2018-09/air-quality-and-outdoor-activity-guidance-2014.pdf)

For more info:

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Disabled vehicle on US 30 westbound between Exit: PA 100 - EXTON/WEST CHESTER and Exit: US 30 BUSINESS - LANCASTER AVE. There is a lane restriction.