Forsyth County issues air quality alert

Published 12:44 pm Thursday, June 29, 2023

WINSTON-SALEM — A Code Orange air quality alert has been issued for Thursday due to levels of particle pollution becoming unhealthy for sensitive groups.

The Forsyth County Office of Environmental Assistance and Protection has declared a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for the Triad Area, including Forsyth, Guilford, Alamance, Davidson, Randolph, Rockingham, Caswell, Davie and Stokes counties. 

Canadian wildfire smoke levels have increased overnight and early morning Thursday, causing a visible haze throughout the Triad. Fine particulates have risen to levels that are unhealthy for sensitive groups, including children, older adults, and people with heart and lung disease such as asthma. It is recommended for these groups to limit prolonged or intense exertion outdoors and to take frequent breaks. 

Triad residents and businesses can help prevent levels from rising even further by driving less, avoiding engine idling, and staying home if possible. The use of gas-powered lawn equipment should also be postponed until the air quality alert is no longer in effect. 

The burning of trash and other non-vegetative material is always prohibited, and the burning of leaves, brush or other vegetation is banned until the alert is over.