The city of Philadelphia is under a Code Red air quality alert—meaning that the air is unhealthy to breathe, and some members of the general public may experience health effects. Air quality may vary throughout the city and throughout the day, with some areas having significantly worse quality depending on the prevailing winds. The Philadelphia Health Department publishes real-time air pollution readings at phila.gov/aqi.
Based on the most recent models, the Health Department is hopeful that this event will end by Friday morning. However, this forecast could change so residents are encouraged to continue monitoring the situation.
The city will remain open today, however, departments and employees are urged to take actions to protect their staff, including allowing staff that can work indoors to do so, providing high-quality masks to staff who must work outdoors, and allowing more frequent breaks for staff working outdoors.
In addition, summer camps run by the city will move their programming indoors. City pools will be closed for the day.
General guidance
As the smoke moves through the region, some parts of Philadelphia may experience significantly worse air quality. The latest information and recommendations are available in the City’s updated blog post.
Residents are strongly encouraged to take precautions to protect themselves. Avoid going outdoors as much as possible and excessive activities outdoors, such as jogging or exercising. If you have to go outdoors, wear a high quality mask, like an N-95 or KN-95 mask. Avoid areas of high congestion and where air pollution may be high, like main streets or highways. Close all windows and doors to minimize air pollution in your home. Recirculate the air in your home with fans.
For individuals that must be outside during the hazardous period, the city is providing masks free of charge at the following locations:
- Health Department Resource Hubs (locations available in the City’s Resource Hub blog post; the Mt. Enon site is closed this week)
- All Philadelphia Police Districts
- Philadelphia Fire Department stations.
Residents can receive two masks per person and may retrieve supplies for individuals at home who cannot make it themselves. Masks are adult-sized only.
If you are having trouble breathing, feeling nauseous, or dizzy, seek medical attention as soon as possible.
