A wildfire in Brunswick County has led to warnings about potential unhealthy air quality over the weekend. Residents are advised to exercise caution.
The N.C. Department of Environmental Quality’s Division of Air Quality (DAQ) has announced a Code Red Air Quality Action Day for Brunswick County and a Code Orange Air Quality Action Day for New Hanover County.
The alerts are currently active until midnight Saturday. “DAQ meteorologists will continue to assess the situation and may modify or extend the alerts over the coming days,” stated the department. For the latest air quality forecasts, residents can visit the Air Quality Portal. The next day’s forecast is typically issued around 3 p.m.
A Code Red alert suggests that prolonged exposure to the air may be unhealthy for everyone. All residents are advised to limit outdoor activities that involve heavy exertion and to take periodic breaks. Individuals sensitive to air pollution should avoid extended outdoor activities and consider altering plans. Sensitive groups include children, older adults, individuals with asthma or other heart or lung conditions, pregnant women, and outdoor workers.
A Code Orange alert means air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups. Those affected should limit heavy outdoor exertion, take frequent breaks, and monitor for symptoms such as shortness of breath.
The wildfire near Boiling Springs Lake is generating a significant smoke plume visible on satellite imagery, likely moving north-northeast near the surface.
Smoke can carry elevated levels of PM2.5, consisting of tiny particles that can penetrate deep into the lungs, aggravating respiratory conditions and linked to heart issues.
The DEQ’s website offers resources for safety during wildfire smoke conditions. More information about particle pollution is available from the EPA.
State law prohibits open burning of yard waste or land clearing debris on Code Orange or higher Air Quality Action Days. Violations of these rules should be reported to the DAQ regional office.
