“This message is generated based on the latest hourly air pollution measurements to estimate the day’s cumulative air quality conditions. Due to federal health guidelines that determine how pollutants are averaged and calculated, this message does not necessarily mean a violation of federal health standards occurred. A sudden change in weather such as an upcoming thunderstorm may reduce the chance of pollution levels reaching unhealthy conditions.”

Code Orange forecast for Tuesday, July 18, 2023: “The Metropolitan Washington Council of Governments (COG) has forecast a Code Orange air day for the metropolitan Washington region tomorrow: Tuesday, July 18. Smoke coming from wildfires in Canada will contribute to the increased levels of fine particle pollution. The Code Orange levels mean the air is unhealthy for sensitive groups, including older adults, children, and people with heart or lung disease.”

National Weather Service Baltimore-Washington: “Drier today with slightly lower humidity as high pressure builds in. An isolated t-storm remains possible over the mountains as a front approaches this evening. The front will be slow to pass Tuesday-Thursday, aiding in additional t-storm chances.”

“This Afternoon: Widespread haze. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. South wind around seven mph.”