FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 8, 2023
Canadian Wildfires Cause Smokey Conditions in the Charlottesville Area
CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA - Smoke from Canadian wildfires is affecting the air quality in the Charlottesville area, as well as large portions of the United States. The current Air Quality Index (AQI) in our area is in the range of 216, which is considered “very unhealthy”, according to the Environmental Projection Agency’s website, www.airnow.gov.
Please monitor local air quality reports and use your own discretion when traveling outside. For those who have preexisting medical issues, please exercise caution when deciding to engage in any outdoor activities. People with heart or lung disease, older adults, children, and teens should avoid strenuous outdoor activities and move them indoors. Consult with your doctor on recommendations about leaving the area if conditions are prolonged.
If you go out, consider wearing an N95 mask to reduce your exposure to air pollutants.
Keep any doors, windows, and fireplaces shut to reduce fine particle build-up indoors. It's recommended that you run your air conditioning on a recirculation setting. Visit www.airnow.gov or download the app to find the AQI for your area.
Media Contact
Kyle Ervin
Public Safety Information Officer
City of Charlottesville
(434) 326-3043
