NJDEP issues Code Orange for all of New Jersey

Asbury Park Press
Updated ·2 min read
Air quality as of 7 a.m. Friday, June 30, 2023.
Air quality as of 7 a.m. Friday, June 30, 2023.

The New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (NJDEP) has issued a Code Orange that's in effect until midnight tonight, June 30, 2023.

A Code Orange means that air quality within the region may approach or exceed unhealthy standards for sensitive groups, such as children, the elderly, and people with respiratory conditions. These groups should avoid prolonged or heavy exertion outdoors, and everyone should limit their exposure to smoke and other pollutants.

The NJDEP is urging residents to take the following precautions:

  • Stay indoors as much as possible.

  • If you must go outside, avoid strenuous activity.

  • If you have respiratory problems, use a mask or respirator when you go outside.

  • Check the air quality forecast before you go outside.

Code Orange Air Quality

  • The air quality index (AQI) for fine particulates is expected to be between 101 and 150.

  • This means that air quality is unhealthy for sensitive groups.

  • The Code Orange is in effect for all of New Jersey.

  • The Code Orange will end at midnight EDT tonight.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the NJDEP at 800-CLEANAIR.

Is Canada still on fire?

There are currently 507 active fires burning in Canada, according to the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre. The fires have scorched at least 8.1 million hectares of land so far this year, which is more than the annual record set in 1989.

NJ smoke forecast

The smoke forecast for Friday, July 1, is that the smoke will begin to clear as winds shift. However, air quality may still be unhealthy for sensitive groups in some areas. The National Weather Service will continue to monitor air quality and issue updates as needed.

What is the AQI index?

The Air Quality Index is what the U.S. Department of Environmental Protection uses as a measure for air quality. It is a score that runs from 0 to 500 — the higher the number the worse the air quality — which is a representation of the number of pollutants in the lower atmosphere.

Here is how to read the categories for the AQI index:

  • Good: 0 to 50. Air quality is satisfactory and pollutants pose no risk

  • Moderate: 51 to 100. Air quality is acceptable. However, there may be a risk for some people, particularly those who are unusually sensitive to air pollution.

  • Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups: 101 to 150  Members of sensitive groups may experience health effects. The general public is less likely to be affected.

  • Unhealthy: 151 to 200. Some members of the general public may experience health effects; members of sensitive groups may experience more serious health effects.

  • Very Unhealthy: 201 to 300. Health alert: The risk of health effects is increased for everyone.

  • Hazardous: 301 and higher. Health warning of emergency conditions; everyone is more likely to be affected.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: Canada wild fire: NJ under Code Orange alert today